Claims:

1-70. (canceled)

71. A resin composition (X8) comprising: a thermoplastic resin
composition containing 0 to 90 wt % of a propylene-based polymer (A8)
whose melting point is 100.degree. C. or higher as measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter, and 10 to 100 wt % of a soft
propylene-based copolymer (B8) that is a copolymer of propylene and at
least one C2-C20 α-olefin other than propylene, the Shore
A hardness of (B8) being 30 to 80, the melting point of (B8) being lower
than 100.degree. C. or not observed when measured with a differential
scanning calorimeter; relative to 100 parts by weight of the
thermoplastic resin composition, that is, the total of (A8) and (B8), 0.1
to 10 parts by weight of a coupling agent (Y8); and 0 to 5 parts by
weight of an organic peroxide (Z8).

72. A laminate comprising at least one layer-[a] containing the resin
composition (X8) according to claim 71 and a layer-[b] containing a
material selected from metal, an inorganic compound, and a polar plastic
material on one or both faces of the layer-[a].

73. A solar cell-sealing sheet comprising a thermoplastic resin
composition (X9) comprising 0 to 70 wt % of a propylene-based polymer
(A9) whose melting point is 100.degree. C. or higher as measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter, and 30 to 100 wt % of a soft
propylene-based copolymer (B9) that is a copolymer of propylene and at
least one C2-C20 α-olefin other than propylene, the Shore
A hardness of (B9) being 30 to 80, the melting point of (B9) being lower
than 100.degree. C. or not observed when measured with a differential
scanning calorimeter.

74. The solar cell-sealing sheet according to claim 73 wherein the soft
propylene-based copolymer (B9) is a propylene/ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer (B9-1), wherein the copolymer (B9-1) contains 45 to 92 mol % of
propylene-derived structural units, 5 to 25 mol % of ethylene-derived
structural units, and 3 to 30 mol % of C4-C20
α-olefin-derived structural units, and the melting point of (B7-1)
is lower than 100.degree. C. or not observed when measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter.

75. A solar cell-sealing sheet comprising a 100 parts by weight of the
thermoplastic resin composition (X9) according to claim 73 and 0.1 to 5
parts by weight of a coupling agent (Y9).

76. The solar cell-sealing sheet according to claim 73, wherein the solar
cell-sealing sheet is non-crosslinked.

77. The solar cell-sealing sheet according to claim 73, wherein when the
sheet has a thickness of 1 mm, the internal haze is 1.0% to 10%.

78-87. (canceled)

Description:

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a propylene-based resin
composition and the use thereof.

[0002] More particularly, the present invention (first aspect) relates to
a thermoplastic resin composition, a molded article at least part of
which is made of the thermoplastic resin composition, and various
articles at least part of which is made of the thermoplastic resin
composition. Still more particularly, the present invention relates to a
thermoplastic resin composition that has excellent mechanical properties
and is excellent in rubber elasticity and permanent compression set not
only at normal temperature but also at high temperatures, a molded
article at least part of which is made of the thermoplastic resin
composition, and various articles at least part of which is made of the
thermoplastic resin composition.

[0003] The present invention (second aspect) more particularly relates to
a thermoplastic resin composition comprising a specific
propylene/α-olefin copolymer, a crosslinked product of said
thermoplastic resin composition, and a molded article thereof. Still more
particularly, it relates to a thermoplastic resin composition that can be
molded at low temperatures and provide a molded article exhibiting
well-balanced flexibility, scratch resistance, and whitening resistance,
a crosslinked product of the thermoplastic resin composition, and a
molded article thereof.

[0004] More particularly, the present invention (third aspect) relates to
a propylene-based polymer composition and a molded article made of said
composition such as films, sheets, blow-molded articles, injection-molded
articles, tubes, and cap liners.

[0005] More particularly, the present invention (fourth aspect) relates to
an oriented film made of a polypropylene-based resin composition, and
still more particularly to a heat-shrinkable film excellent in
transparency, flexibility, impact resistance, and mechanical properties
which has a high heat-shrink ratio but a small extent of spontaneous
shrinkage at room temperature and has small extent of spontaneous
shrinkage.

[0007] The present invention (sixth aspect) more particularly relates to a
propylene-based resin composition and a molded article obtained from said
composition. Still more particularly, the present invention relates to a
propylene-based resin composition that contains a large amount of
inorganic filler and is excellent in flexibility, mechanical strength,
elongation at break, heat resistance, scratch resistance, whitening
resistance, and flame retardance, and a molded article of the
composition.

[0008] More particularly, the present invention (seventh aspect) more
particularly relates to a foaming material, a foam, and the use of the
foam. Still more particularly, the present invention relates to a
composition that can provide foams having a low specific gravity, a low
permanent compression set, excellent tear strength, low resilience, and
excellent scratch resistance; a foam; and the use of the foam.

[0009] More particularly, the present invention (eighth aspect) more
particularly relates to a soft polypropylene-based resin composition that
has high adhesion to inorganic materials, such as metal and glass, and
various plastics and can provide laminates excellent in flexibility,
transparency, rubber elasticity, and scratch resistance.

[0010] More particularly, the present invention (ninth aspect) relates to
a sheet for sealing a solar cell between a front face member and a back
surface member that are plate or sheet made of glass or plastics.

[0011] More particularly, the present invention (tenth aspect) more
particularly relates to an electric/electronic element-sealing sheet
suitable for sealing various electrical and electronic elements,
particularly solar cells, and also relates to various applications of the
sheet (solar cell-sealing sheets, solar cell modules, power generators,
etc.)

BACKGROUND ART

[0012] A number of resin compositions have been developed for use in a
variety of applications. As described later, propylene-based resin
compositions are employed for some applications, but further improvements
are requested on the properties required in each application.

[0013] For instance, various materials have been used in components or
parts and sheets for automobile components, industrial machine
components, electrical and electronic components, building materials, and
cap liners where rubber elasticity is required. An example of such
material is vulcanized rubber. Vulcanized rubber is generally produced by
kneading rubber with crosslinkers, crosslinking auxiliaries, additives,
auxiliaries, and others to prepare an unvulcanized rubber blend, followed
by vulcanization with heating. Therefore, vulcanized rubber encounters
problems of complicated production processes and a high cost. In
addition, due to thermosetting nature, vulcanized rubber cannot be
recycled.

[0014] On the other hand, vinyl chloride resin is known as a material that
does not require vulcanization but has rubber-like properties. However,
vinyl chloride resin is inferior in rubber elasticity to vulcanized
rubber, resulting in limited application. Recently, development of a
material substituting vinyl chloride resin has been awaited for reasons
such as the difficulty in incineration.

[0015] A thermoplastic elastomer is known as a polymer material that is
plasticized and moldable like plastics at high temperatures while
exhibiting rubber elasticity at normal temperature. As a recyclable
olefinic thermoplastic elastomer, a dynamically crosslinked product of
polypropylene and ethylene/α-olefin copolymer is known. However, in
this case, there is also a problem of an increased cost due to the need
of using crosslinkers and crosslinking auxiliaries.

[0016] In order to overcome these shortcomings, Patent Document 1 proposes
a polyethylene-based resin composition mainly composed of an olefinic
elastomer mainly derived from ethylene and its use. However, the heat
resistance is insufficient because the major component is polyethylene.

[0018] However, the composition in Patent Document 2 still has room for
improvement in mechanical properties, oil acceptance, or others. In
addition, neither rubber elasticity nor permanent compression set at high
temperature is described in Patent Document 2.

[0019] On the other hand, as described above, a thermoplastic elastomer is
known as a polymer material that is plasticized and moldable like
plastics at high temperatures while exhibiting rubber elasticity at
normal temperature. Examples thereof include, besides the dynamically
crosslinked product of polypropylene and ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer, a composition of polypropylene and a styrene-based elastomer
(see Patent Document 3). This material is excellent in strength,
flexibility, and heat resistance, and hence, can suitably be used for cap
liners and others.

[0020] A thermoplastic olefinic elastomer comprising polypropylene and
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer is also used because flexibility can be
further improved (see Patent Document 4).

[0021] However, the above olefinic thermoplastic elastomers are
insufficient in balance of flexibility and scratch resistance, causing a
problem that scratch resistance and whitening resistance are deteriorated
if sufficient flexibility is attained. These are the background art for
the first and second aspects of the present invention.

[0022] Polypropylene-based resin compositions are used in various
applications such as electrical and electronic components, industrial
materials, furniture, stationery, convenience goods, containers and
packages, toys, leisure goods, and medical articles because of their
excellent heat resistance, transparency, and moldability. As a technology
of improving the flexibility and impact resistance of polypropylene-based
resin compositions, addition of various soft materials is also known.

[0023] For instance, Patent Document 5 describes that a composition
composed of a polypropylene-based resin and a specific
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer elastomer is excellent in
transparency and usable, for example, for stretch films.

[0024] Patent Document 6 describes a composition composed of polypropylene
and a specific α-olefin copolymer elastomer in which the propylene
content is more than 20 wt % and not more than 80 wt %, the ethylene
content is more than 10 wt % and not more than 45 wt %, and the
α-olefin content is more than 10 wt % and not more than 45 wt %.

[0025] Patent Document 7 describes a composition composed of polypropylene
and a specific propylene/butene/ethylene copolymer is usable for
industrial shrink films and wrap films for service.

[0026] Patent Document 8 describes, for example, that a composition
composed of amorphous propylene/butene random copolymer and crystalline
propylene-based polymer is excellent in whitening resistance on folding
and usable for molded articles, transparent boxes, and others.

[0027] Patent Document 9 describes a sheet excellent in whitening
resistance and transparency made of a composition mainly composed of a
styrene-based elastomer and polypropylene.

[0028] When polypropylene is used in applications where transparency is
required, such as stretch films, the film is sometimes required to
maintain transparency when stretched or after treated at high
temperatures.

[0029] However, the compositions in Patent Documents 5 and 6 are
insufficient in whitening resistance on stretching or heating. Further,
the compositions in Patent Documents 7 and 8 are poor in strength and
have difficulties in practical use.

[0030] The composition comprising the styrene-based elastomer described in
Patent Document 9 is excellent in whitening resistance, flexibility, and
transparency, but styrene-based elastomers are generally immiscible with
polypropylene, whereby molded articles of such composition are whitened
under some service conditions. Moreover, the composition containing the
styrene-based elastomer has excellent rubber elasticity at room
temperature, but its rubber elasticity is poor at high temperatures.
These are the background art for the third aspect of the present
invention.

[0031] As a material widely used for heat-shrinkable films,
polyvinylchloride resin and polystyrene resin are known. There is,
however, concern about adverse effects on human bodies and environment of
byproducts generated on disposal of these resins. Therefore, development
of heat-shrinkable films using polyolefin is now underway. Conventional
heat-shrinkable films made of polyolefin-based resin are inferior to
heat-shrinkable films made of vinyl chloride resin in mechanical strength
and heat shrink ratio at low temperatures. In particular, when this film
is used as heat-shrinkable labels for beverage PET bottles, the film is
often subjected to shrinking process together with a PET bottle in a
heat-shrink tunnel using steam or others, and therefore, there is demand
for a heat-shrinkable film having a high shrink ratio at lower
temperatures.

[0032] Further, for separating PET bottles and label resins on recycling
PET bottles, PET bottles and label resins are pulverized together and
gravitationally separated in liquid phase based on the difference between
these materials in buoyancy in water. For example, the specific gravity
of polystyrene-based resin is about 1.03 to about 1.06, so that
polystyrene-based resin sinks in water together with PET resin, which has
a specific gravity of 1.3 to 1.5. Therefore, the label made of such resin
having a specific gravity of 1 or higher is difficult to separate from
PET resin by the above method. For this reason, a low-temperature
heat-shrinkable film made of polyolefin having a specific gravity smaller
than 1 is awaited to be developed.

[0033] As an attempt to meet this demand, for example, Patent Document 10
discloses a heat-shrinkable film obtained from crystalline polypropylene
and propylene/1-butene random copolymer. This film has a high heat shrink
ratio and is excellent in transparency. However, since the
propylene/1-butene random copolymer (optionally containing 10 mol % or
less of another α-olefin unit) is poor in impact resistance, the
film obtained from this copolymer is also insufficient in flexibility or
impact resistance.

[0034] Patent Document 11 discloses a heat-shrinkable film made of
propylene/α-olefin random copolymer and petroleum resin wherein the
copolymer is obtained from propylene and a C2-C20
α-olefin and has a melting point of 40 to 115° C. as
measured with a DSC. This film possesses a higher heat shrink ratio than
the film in Patent Document 10, but it is still insufficient in
flexibility and impact resistance.

[0035] Patent Document 12 discloses a heat-shrinkable film having a film
mainly composed of a propylene/α-olefin random copolymer
(propylene/ethylene random copolymer) as an intermediate layer.

[0036] In the propylene/α-olefin random copolymer, 2 to 7 mol % of a
co-monomer (ethylene or α-olefin) is copolymerized with propylene.
The propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (propylene/ethylene random
copolymer) alone cannot attain a sufficient heat shrink ratio, and impact
resistance of films obtained therefrom is also poor.

[0037] Patent Document 12 also discloses a technology of adding linear
low-density polyethylene and ethylene-based rubber to a
propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (propylene/ethylene random
copolymer). This technology improves heat shrink ratio and impact
resistance of the film, but has a problem that film transparency is
lowered.

[0038] Patent Document 13 discloses that a composition consisting of 20 to
50 parts by weight of polypropylene and 80 to 50 parts by weight of
propylene/butene/ethylene copolymer is usable for stretch films and
others. However, the document does not describe film drawing or use for
heat-shrinkable films. These are the background art for the fourth aspect
of the invention.

[0039] As a sheet for surface decoration or protection in building
materials, home electric appliances, automobile interior and exterior
materials, and others, there have conventionally been used films mainly
composed of vinyl chloride resin, which have well-balanced scratch
resistance, whitening resistance on folding, wrinkle resistance,
transparency, and others.

[0040] However, since such films have disadvantages such as difficulty in
incineration as described above, a focus has been made in the art on
polyolefin-based materials with less burden on environment.

[0041] For instance, Patent Document 14 discloses a decorative sheet
having a polypropylene film as an essential component layer. Patent
Document 15 discloses a decorative sheet having a thermoplastic olefinic
elastomer as an essential component layer.

[0042] However, in the decorative sheet proposed in Patent Document 14,
which has a polypropylene film as a component layer, the high
crystallinity and the melting point of polypropylene cause problems such
as lowering in flexibility and occurrence of cracks or whitening at
bended faces during folding processing. The decorative sheet proposed in
Patent Document 15, which has a thermoplastic-olefinic elastomer as a
component layer, is excellent in flexibility and hardly encounters
cracking or whitening at bended faces, but has problems of insufficient
transparency and mechanical strength, and others.

[0043] In order to solve these problems, Patent Document 16 proposes a
decorative sheet having a layer made of a resin composition containing a
specific non-crystalline polyolefin and a crystalline polypropylene at a
specific ratio.

[0044] This decorative sheet was less liable to cracks and whitening at
bended faces but insufficient in mechanical strength, scratch resistance,
and heat resistance.

[0045] Patent Document 17 proposes a decorative sheet having a polyester
film as a surface protective layer.

[0046] Using a polyester film as a surface protective layer significantly
improved mechanical strength and scratch resistance, but such material
containing a polar group in its molecular chain had a problem of poor
water resistance (resistance against water vapor permeation). These are
the background art for the fifth aspect of the invention.

[0047] Polypropylene-based resin is a more excellent material than
polyethylene-based resin (polyethylene-based elastomer) in heat
resistance, mechanical resistance, and scratch resistance, and molded
articles obtained from polypropylene-based resin are used in various
applications. Molded articles prepared from a conventional polypropylene
and inorganic filler are excellent in heat resistance and mechanical
strength, but poor in flexibility and impact resistance. For this reason,
in uses where such properties as flexibility and impact resistance are
required, polyethylene-based resin is mainly employed. However, the
problem is that molded articles of polyethylene-based resin are
insufficient in scratch resistance.

[0048] As a molded article obtained from polypropylene-based resin and
inorganic filler (flame retardant), an electric cable or wire harness is
known, which requires scratch resistance. Patent Document 18 discloses an
insulated electrical wire for automobiles using a specific propylene
polymer. The molded article used in Patent Document 18 was excellent in
flexibility and impact resistance but insufficient in scratch resistance.
These are background art for the sixth aspect of the invention.

[0049] As a resin material having a low specific gravity, which means
light in weight, and is excellent in flexibility and mechanical strength,
a crosslinked foam is widely used in building interior and exterior
materials, automobile components such as interior materials and door
glassruns, packaging materials, convenience goods, and others. This is
because, while mechanical strength of a resin is lowered when merely
foamed for reducing its weight, foaming with crosslinking can attain
weight reduction without lowering mechanical strength by bonding the
molecular chains to each other through crosslinking reaction of the
resin.

[0050] Crosslinked foams of resins are also used for footwear and footwear
components, for example, shoe soles (mainly mid-soles) for sports shoes
and others. This results from demand for a material that is lightweight,
less deformed in long-term use, mechanically strong enough to be durable
in use under severe conditions, low resilient so as to absorb impact on
landing, and scratch resistance.

[0051] Conventionally, a crosslinked foam formed from ethylene/vinyl
acetate copolymer has been widely used for shoe soles. However, the
crosslinked foam formed from ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer composition
has a high specific gravity and a large permanent compression set.
Therefore, when the foam is used for shoe soles, there are problems of
heavy weight and significant abrasion caused by loss of mechanical
strength due to compression during long-term use.

[0052] To overcome these disadvantages, Patent Documents 19 and 20
disclose a crosslinked foam obtained from ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer and a crosslinked foam obtained from a mixture of
ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer and ethylene/α-olefin copolymer,
respectively. In these foams, the specific gravity and permanent
compression set are reduced, but satisfactory performances have not been
attained.

[0053] As a material obtained by dynamic crosslinking of olefinic rubber,
a thermoplastic elastomer is known (see Patent Document 21). However,
Patent Document 21 does not suggest foaming. In addition, it is difficult
to foam the thermoplastic olefinic elastomer at a high foaming ratio for
providing foams with a low specific gravity. Therefore, the thermoplastic
olefinic elastomer is not suitable for the above applications.

[0054] As described above, it has been hard to obtain foams having low
specific gravity, low permanent compression set (CS), excellent tear
strength, low resilience, and good scratch resistance. These are the
background art for the seventh aspect of the invention.

[0055] Since films or sheets of soft polypropylene-based resin are
superior to those of soft polyethylene-based resin in heat resistance,
flexibility, and mechanical strength, it is expected that their use will
be developed in automobile components, building materials, food industry,
and others. In these fields, the film or sheet is used as laminates with
inorganic material, such as metal (including aluminum, copper, iron,
stainless steel, etc.) and glass, or various plastics in many cases, so
that the film or sheet is required to have excellent adhesion to various
materials. In particular, soft polypropylene-based resin that exhibits
adhesion to inorganic materials such as metal has been awaited.

[0056] It is difficult to graft polypropylene-based resin with a polar
monomer using an organic peroxide or the like, and such grafting greatly
decreases the molecular weight, significantly lowering heat resistance
and mechanical properties.

[0057] Patent Document 22 describes a technology of adding an
organosilicon compound to polypropylene for improving adhesion to metal
and others. However, the laminate obtained using this technology is poor
in transparency, flexibility, and rubber elasticity, and hence, its use
is limited. The polyethylene resin obtained by this technology has
improved adhesion as compared with conventional unmodified polypropylene.
However, the polypropylene-based resin obtained by this technology had
high crystallinity, and therefore, it was sometimes easily peeled off
since peeling stress was concentrated when peeling. These are the
background art of the eighth aspect of the invention.

[0058] In conventional sheets for sealing a solar cell between front and
back plates or sheets made of glass, plastics, or others (solar
cell-sealing sheet), ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer (in this
specification, often abbreviated as "EVA") has been commonly used. This
is because EVA is flexible and highly transparent and provides long-term
durability when blended with appropriate additives such as a weathering
stabilizer and an adhesion promoter.

[0059] However, EVA has a low melting point, causing problems in heat
resistance such as thermal deformation at environmental temperatures
where solar cell modules are used. To resolve this problem, a crosslinked
structure is formed by adding an organic peroxide to impart heat
resistance.

[0060] Solar cell-sealing sheets are prepared by a known sheet molding
process applicable to molding polyolefin. There has been a problem that
addition of an organic peroxide disables high-speed production because
low-temperature molding is inevitable to avoid decomposition of the
organic peroxide.

[0061] The production process of a solar cell module configured as (glass
or plastics)/(solar cell-sealing sheet)/(solar cell)/(solar cell-sealing
sheet)/(back sheet) generally includes two steps: a temporary bonding
step by vacuum heat lamination and a crosslinking step using a
high-temperature oven. Since the crosslinking step using the organic
peroxide takes several tens of minutes, omitting or speed-up of the
crosslinking step is strongly required.

[0062] In long-term use of solar cells, gas generated by decomposition of
EVA (acetic acid gas) or the vinyl acetate group in EVA itself may have
adverse effects on the solar cell and lower its power generation
efficiency.

[0063] To resolve such problems, a solar cell-sealing sheet using
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer has been proposed (see Patent Document
23). With the proposed materials, the adverse effects on solar cell
elements are considered to decrease, but balance of heat resistance and
flexibility is insufficient. Furthermore, the crosslinking is hard to
omit since desirable heat resistance is not attained without
crosslinking. These are the background art for the ninth aspect of the
invention.

[0064] Recent advancement in electrical/electronics elements is
remarkable, and they have been widely used in every aspect of social,
industrial, and domestic circumstances. Generally, electrical/electronics
elements are easily affected by moisture, oxidants, and others, and
hence, they are sealed in many applications to attain stable operation
and long service life.

[0065] Nowadays, various materials for sealing electrical/electronics
elements are produced and supplied in the market. Among them, a sealing
sheet made of an organic polymer is very useful because of its
applicability to relatively wide area and ease in use. In addition,
transparency can be attained relatively easily, and hence, the sealing
sheet is particularly suitable for sealing electrical/electronics
elements using light, especially solar cells.

[0066] Solar cells are generally used in sealed solar cell modules,
because they are used outdoors such as on the roof of buildings in many
cases. The solar cell module has a structure in which a solar cell
element made of polycrystalline silicon or others is sandwiched between
solar cell-sealing materials made of a soft transparent resin to form a
stack, of which the front and back surfaces are covered with solar cell
module protective sheets. That is, a typical solar cell module has a
layered structure, solar cell module protective sheet (front protective
sheet)/solar cell-sealing sheet/solar cell element/solar cell-sealing
sheet/solar cell module protective sheet (back protective sheet). Owing
to this structure, the solar cell module has weatherability and is
suitable for use outdoors such as on the roof of buildings.

[0067] As a material forming the solar cell-sealing sheet (solar
cell-sealing material), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) has been
widely used from the viewpoint of transparency, flexibility, or others as
described above (for example, see Patent Document 24). When used as the
solar cell-sealing material, EVA is generally crosslinked to attain heat
resistance. However, the crosslinking takes a relatively long time of
about one to two hours, lowering the production speed and productivity of
solar cell elements. Further, there has been a concern about possible
adverse effects of acetic acid gas or other chemicals generated by
decomposition of EVA on solar cell modules.

[0068] As one of the methods for solving the above-mentioned technical
problems, use of a solar cell-sealing sheet made of non-crosslinked resin
has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 25). However, with an
increase in requested levels of the productivity, durability under severe
conditions, and service life of solar cells, all of the transparency,
heat resistance, and flexibility have become required to have levels
higher than those attainable with EAA, EMAA, or other resins proposed
specifically in Patent Document 25. If such a request is satisfied, the
sealing sheet would be quite useful for electrical/electronics elements
besides solar cells.

[0095] An object of the present invention is to provide propylene-based
resin compositions suitable for use in various applications and the use
thereof.

[0096] An object of the first aspect of the invention to solve the
above-mentioned problems is to provide a resin composition that is
excellent in mechanical properties and excellent in rubber elasticity and
permanent compression set not only at normal temperature but also at high
temperatures, a molded article obtained using the composition, and the
use thereof.

[0097] An object of the second aspect of the invention to solve the
above-mentioned problems is to provide a thermoplastic resin composition
having excellent balance of flexibility and scratch resistance and good
whitening resistance, a crosslinked product obtained by crosslinking the
thermoplastic resin composition, and a molded article with well-balanced
flexibility and scratch resistance as well as excellent whitening
resistance.

[0098] An object of the third aspect of the invention to solve the
above-mentioned problems is to provide a propylene-based polymer
composition that is particularly excellent in mechanical strength,
transparency, and whitening resistance (on orientation and heat
treatment) and also excellent in impact resistance, scratch resistance,
flexibility, transparency, stretching property, room-temperature rubber
elasticity, and high-temperature rubber elasticity; and a molded article
of the composition.

[0099] An object of the fourth aspect of the invention is to provide a
film excellent in shrinking properties (high shrink ratio on heating and
reduced spontaneous shrink at room temperature), transparency,
flexibility, stretching property, and impact resistance, and a
heat-shrinkable film using the film; and another object is to provide a
resin composition suitable for use in the film and the heat-shrinkable
film.

[0100] An object of the fifth aspect of the invention is to provide a
polyolefin-based decorative sheet excellent in flexibility, scratch
resistance, abrasion resistance, whitening on orientation, whitening on
folding, wrinkle resistance, heat resistance, water resistance,
compression set resistance, and mechanical strength.

[0101] An object of the sixth aspect of the invention is to provide a
propylene-based resin composition that contains a large amount of an
inorganic filler and is excellent in flexibility, mechanical strength,
elongation at break, heat resistance, scratch resistance, whitening
resistance, and flame retardance. Another object of the sixth aspect of
the invention is to provide a method for producing a propylene-based
resin composition excellent in flexibility, mechanical strength,
elongation at break, heat resistance, whitening resistance, and flame
retardance, and especially in scratch resistance; and a propylene-based
polymer composition suitable for use in producing the resin composition.
Still another object of the sixth aspect of the invention is to provide a
molded article made of the above composition and an electrical wire
having an insulator and/or a sheath made of the composition.

[0102] An object of the seventh aspect of the invention is to provide a
material for foam capable of providing a foam excellent in tear strength,
low resilience, and scratch resistance and a foam made of the material.

[0103] An object of the eighth aspect of the invention is to provide a
soft polypropylene-based resin composition that has high adhesion to
inorganic materials, such as metal and glass, and various plastics and
can form a laminate excellent in flexibility, transparency, rubber
elasticity, and scratch resistance.

[0104] An object of the ninth aspect of the invention to solve the
above-mentioned problems is to provide a solar cell-sealing sheet using a
soft propylene-based material that is newly introduced into these fields,
specifically to provide a solar cell-sealing sheet that causes no gas
resulting from decomposition of the raw material, and hence, has no
adverse effect on solar cell elements and exhibits excellent mechanical
strength, solar cell sealing ability, transparency, weatherability, and
heat resistance even without crosslinking.

[0105] An object of the tenth aspect of the invention to solve the
above-mentioned problems is to provide an electrical/electronics
element-sealing sheet that is suitable for protecting solar cells and
various electrical/electronics elements and excellent in transparency,
heat resistance, and flexibility. Another object of the tenth aspect of
the invention is to further impart excellent adhesion, which is essential
in practical use, to the excellent electrical/electronics element-sealing
sheet.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0106] The present inventors have studied intensively to solve the above
problems and accomplished the present invention. Namely, thermoplastic
resin composition (X1) according to the first aspect of the invention
comprises (A1), (B1), (C1), and if necessary, (D1) below:

[0110] 0 to 70 wt % of ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (D1) having a
density of 0.850 to 0.910g/cm3;

wherein (A1)+(B1)+(C1)+(D1)=100 wt %.

[0111] Thermoplastic resin composition (X1) according to the first aspect
of the invention preferably further contains softener (E1) in an amount
of 1 to 400 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of the total
of (A1)+(B1)+(C1)+(D1).

[0112] The molded article of the first aspect of the invention has at
least one portion made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1).

[0113] The molded article of the first aspect of the invention is
preferably a film or sheet.

[0114] The molded article of the first aspect of the invention is
preferably a mono-filament, a fiber, or a nonwoven fabric.

[0115] The automobile interior or exterior component of the first aspect
of the invention has at least one portion made of thermoplastic resin
composition (X1).

[0116] The home electric appliance component of the first aspect of the
invention has at least one portion made of thermoplastic resin
composition (X1).

[0117] The construction or building component of the first aspect of the
invention has at least one portion made of thermoplastic resin
composition (X1).

[0118] The packaging sheet or cap liner of the first aspect of the
invention has at least one portion made of thermoplastic resin
composition (X1).

[0119] The cap of the first aspect has the above cap liner.

[0120] The packaging container of the first aspect of the invention has
the above cap.

[0121] The gasket of the first aspect of the invention has at least one
portion made of the thermoplastic resin composition (X1).

[0122] The daily-use product of the first aspect of the invention have at
least one portion made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1).

[0123] The decorative sheet of the first aspect has at least one portion
made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1).

[0124] Thermoplastic resin composition (X2) according to the second aspect
of invention comprises (A2), (B2), (C2), (D2), and (E2) below:

[0125] 5 to 95 wt % of propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2) whose
melting point is not higher than 100° C. or not observed when
measured with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC);

[0126] 5 to 95 wt % of styrene-based elastomer (C2);

[0127] 0 to 90 wt % of isotactic polypropylene (A2);

[0128] 0 to 70 wt % of ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (D2) having a
density of 0.850 to 0.910 g/cm3;

wherein (A2)+(B2)+(C2)+(D2)=100 wt %, and

[0129] softener (E2) in an amount of 0 to 400 parts by weight relative to
100 parts by weight of the total of (A2)+(B2)+(C2)+(D2).

[0130] In thermoplastic resin composition (X2) according to the second
aspect of the invention, propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2) is
preferably a copolymer of propylene and at least one C4-C20
α-olefin.

[0131] In thermoplastic resin composition (X2) according to the second
aspect of the invention, propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2) is
preferably a propylene/1-butene copolymer with a molecular weight
distribution (Mw/Mn) of 3 or less as measured by gel permeation,
chromatography (GPC).

[0132] In thermoplastic resin composition (X2) according to the second
aspect of the invention, propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2) is
preferably produced by polymerization using a metallocene catalyst.

[0133] The crosslinked product of thermoplastic resin composition (X2) of
the second aspect of the invention is obtained by crosslinking
thermoplastic resin composition (X2).

[0134] The molded article of the second aspect of the invention is made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X2).

[0135] The molded article of the second aspect of the invention is made of
the above crosslinked product.

[0136] The molded article of the second aspect of the invention is
obtained by further crosslinking the above molded article.

[0137] Propylene-based polymer composition (X3) according to the third
aspect of the invention comprises 10 to 98 wt's of propylene-based
polymer (A3) that contains 90 mol % or more of propylene-derived
structural units, is insoluble in n-decane at 23° C., and has an
intrinsic viscosity [η] of 0.01 to 10 dl/g as measured in decalin at
135° C.; and

[0140] (b2) the melting point is not higher than 100° C. or not
observed when measured with a DSC;

[0141] (b3) the content of propylene-derived structural units is 60 to 75
mol %, the content of ethylene-derived structural units is 10 to 14.5 mol
%, and the content of C4-C20 α-olefin-derived structural
units is 10.5 to 30 mol % (wherein the total of propylene-derived
structural units, ethylene-derived structural units, and C4-C20
α-olefin-derived structural units is 100 mol %);

[0142] (b4) the triad tacticity (mm-fraction) measured with 13C-NMR
is 85% to 97.5%; and (b5) the molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn)
measured by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) is 1.0 to 3.0.

[0143] In propylene-based polymer composition (X3) according to the third
aspect of the invention, the melting point of propylene-based polymer
(A3) is preferably 110 to 170° C. as measured with a differential
scanning calorimeter (DSC).

[0144] Preferably, propylene-based polymer composition (X3) according to
the third aspect of the invention further contains at least one polymer
(C3) that is selected from an ethylene-based polymer and a styrene-based
polymer and has a Shore A hardness of 95 or less and/or a Shore D
hardness of 60 or less, wherein the total of component(s) (C3) is in the
range of 1 to 40 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of the
total of propylene-based polymer (A3) and soft propylene/α-olefin
random copolymer (B3).

[0145] In a preferred embodiment of the propylene-based polymer
composition (X3) according to the third aspect of the invention, the
intensites of magnetization in decay process due to transverse relaxation
for propylene-based polymer (A3), soft propylene/α-olefin random
copolymer (B3), and propylene-based polymer composition (X3-1) described
below, each of which is measured with pulse NMR (solid-echo experiment,
observed for 1H) up to 1000 μs, satisfy relation (3-1) below in
the entire range of t (observing time) from 500 to 1000 μs.

M(t)A×(1-fB)+M(t)E×fB-M(t)X-1.gtore-
q.0.02 3-1

[0146] M(t)A: intensity of magnetization in decay process at time t
measured for propylene-based polymer (A3) used in propylene-based polymer
composition (X3),

[0148] M(t)X-1: intensity of magnetization in decay process at time t
measured for propylene-based polymer composition (X3-1) prepared by
melt-kneading a polypropylene containing propylene-based polymer (A3)
used in propylene-based polymer (X3) with soft propylene/α-olefin
random copolymer (B3) used in propylene-based polymer (X3) in such a
ratio that the weight ratio of polymer (A3) to copolymer (B3) in
composition (X3-1) is identical to the ratio in propylene-based polymer
composition (X3), and

[0150] wherein t (observation time) is 500 to 1000 μs; M(t)A,
M(t)B and M(t)X-1 are each normalized as 0 to 1 (the maximum
intensity is set to be 1).

[0151] The molded article of the third aspect of the invention is made of
propylene-based polymer composition (X3).

[0152] The molded article of the third aspect is preferably any of a film,
a sheet, a blow-molded article, an injection-molded article, and a tube.

[0153] The cap liner of the third aspect of the invention has at least one
layer of propylene-based polymer composition (X3).

[0154] The wrap film for foods of the third aspect of the invention has at
least one layer made of propylene-based polymer composition (X3).

[0155] The wrap film for foods of the third aspect of the invention
comprises preferably a laminate having at least one layer made of
propylene-based polymer composition (X3) and at least one layer made of
an ethylene homopolymer or an ethylene copolymer containing 70 mol % or
more of ethylene units.

[0156] The single-layer or multilayer film according to the fourth aspect
of invention has at least one layer that is made of resin composition
(X4) comprising (A4) and (B4) below and monoaxially or biaxially
oriented:

[0157] 10 to 97 wt % of isotactic polypropylene (A4); and

[0158] 3 to 90 wt % of propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4)
that contains 40 to 85 mol % of propylene-derived structural units, 5 to
30 mol % of ethylene-derived structural units, and 5 to 30 mol % of
C4-C20 α-olefin-derived structural units (a4), the
melting point of (B4) being not higher than 100° C. or not
observed when measured with a differential scanning calorimeter, wherein
the total of (A4) and (B4) is 100 wt %.

[0159] In the single-layer or multilayer film according to the fourth
aspect of the invention, resin composition (X4) preferably contains
hydrocarbon resin (C4) having a softening point of 50° C. to
160° C. as measured with the ring-and-ball method and a
number-average molecular weight of 300 to 1400 as measured by gel
permeation chromatography (GPC) in an amount of 3 to 70 parts by weight
relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of (A4)+(B4).

[0160] The heat-shrinkable film of the fourth aspect of the invention
comprises the above film.

[0161] The resin composition (X4) according to the fourth aspect of the
invention comprises

[0162] 10 to 97 wt % of an isotactic polypropylene (A4);

[0163] 3 to 90 wt % of a propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4)
that contains 40 to 85 mol % of a propylene-derived structural units, 5
to 30 mol % of an ethylene-derived structural units, and 5 to 30 mol % of
a C4-C20 α-olefin-derived structural units (a4), the
melting point of (B4) being not higher than 100° C. or not
observed when measured with a differential scanning calorimeter, wherein
the total of (A4) and (34) is 100 wt %; and

[0164] A hydrocarbon resin (C4) having a softening point of 50° C.
to 160° C. as measured with the ring-and-ball method and a
number-average molecular weight of 300 to 1400 as measured by gel
permeation chromatography (GPC) in an amount of 3 to 70 parts by weight
relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of (A4)+(B4).

[0165] The polyolefin decorative sheet according to the fifth aspect of
invention has at least one component layer made of propylene-based
polymer composition (X5) that contains

[0166] isotactic polypropylene (A5) and propylene-based polymer (B5) whose
melting point is not higher than 120° C. or not observed when
measured with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), wherein

[0167] the amount of (A5) is 10 to 99 parts by weight and the amount of
(B5) is 1 to 90 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the total
of (A5) and (B5).

[0168] In the polyolefin decorative sheet according to the fifth aspect,
propylene-based polymer composition (X5) preferably contains at least one
soft polymer (C5) other than propylene-based polymer (B5) having a Shore
A hardness of 95 or less and/or a Shore D hardness of 60 or less in an
amount of 1 to 80 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of the
total of (A5) and (B5).

[0169] In the polyolefin decorative sheet according to the fifth aspect of
the invention, the layer made of propylene-based polymer composition (X5)
is preferably used as a protective layer.

[0170] Preferably, the polyolefin decorative sheet according to the fifth
aspect of the invention further has at least one component layer made of
a polyolefin-based resin composition other than propylene-based polymer
composition (X5).

[0171] In the polyolefin decorative sheet according to the fifth aspect of
the invention, the layer made of propylene-based polymer composition (X5)
and the layer made of a polyolefin-based resin composition other than
propylene-based polymer composition (X5) are preferably laminated without
intervening of any adhesive therebetween.

[0172] Propylene-based resin composition (X6) according to the sixth
aspect of the present invention contains

[0173] 0 to 80 wt % of propylene-based polymer (A6) whose melting point is
120 to 170° C. as measured with a differential scanning
calorimeter (DSC);

[0174] 5 to 85 wt % of propylene-based polymer (B6) whose melting point is
not higher than 120° C. or not observed when measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter (DSC);

[0175] 0 to 40 wt %, as total, of one or more elastomer (C6) selected from
ethylene-based elastomer (C6-1) and styrene-based elastomer (C6-2); and

[0184] In propylene-based resin composition (X6) according to the sixth
aspect, inorganic filler (D6) is preferably at least one compound
selected from metal hydroxides, metal carbonates, and metal oxides.

[0185] Propylene-based resin composition (X6) according to the sixth
aspect of the invention preferably contains oil (E6) in an amount of 0.1
to 20 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of
propylene-based polymer (A6), propylene-based polymer (B6), at least one
elastomer (C6) selected from ethylene-based elastomer (C6-1) and
styrene-based elastomer (C6-2), and inorganic filler (D6).

[0186] Propylene-based resin composition (X6) according to the sixth
aspect preferably contains graft-modified polymer (F6), in which a polar
group-containing vinyl compound is grafted in an amount of 0.01 to 10 wt
% based on 100 wt % of the graft-modified polymer, in an amount of 0.1 to
30 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of
propylene-based polymer (A6), propylene-based polymer (B6), at least one
elastomer (C6) selected from ethylene-based elastomer (C6-1) and
styrene-based elastomer (C6-2), and inorganic filler (D).

[0187] In the method for producing propylene-based resin composition (X6)
according to the sixth aspect of the invention, propylene-based polymer
(B6) and graft-modified polymer (F6) are melt-kneaded to produce
propylene-based polymer composition (G6), and said propylene-based
polymer composition (G6) is melt-kneaded with components including
inorganic filler (D6), optionally propylene-based polymer (A6), and
optionally at least one elastomer (C6) selected from ethylene-based
elastomer (C6-1) and styrene-based elastomer (C6-2).

[0188] Propylene-based resin composition (X6) of the sixth aspect of the
invention is produced by the above method.

[0189] Propylene-based polymer composition (G'6) according to the sixth
aspect of the invention comprises 99 to 14 parts by weight of
propylene-based polymer (B6) whose melting point is lower than
120° C. or not observed when measured with a differential scanning
calorimeter (DSC); and

[0190] 1 to 86 parts by weight of graft-modified polymer (F6) in which a
polar group-containing vinyl compound is grafted in an amount of 0.01 to
10 wt % based on 100 wt % of the graft-modified polymer.

[0191] Propylene-based polymer composition (G'6) according to the sixth
aspect of the invention preferably contains 99 to 50 parts by weight of
propylene-based polymer (B6) and 1 to 50 parts by weight of
graft-modified polymer (F6).

[0192] The molded article of the sixth aspect of the invention is made of
propylene-based resin composition (X6).

[0193] The molded article of the sixth aspect of the invention is
preferably an insulator or a sheath in an electrical wire.

[0194] The electrical wire of the sixth aspect of the invention has an
insulator made of the propylene-based resin composition (X6) and/or a
sheath made of the propylene-based resin composition (X6).

[0195] The electrical wire of the sixth aspect of the invention is
preferably an electrical wire for automobiles or apparatuses.

[0196] Material for foam (X7) according to the seventh aspect of the
invention contains propylene-based polymer (B7) whose melting point is
lower than 100° C. or not observed when measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter.

[0197] Material for foam (X7) according to the seventh aspect of the
invention preferably contains the propylene-based polymer (B7) that is a
copolymer of propylene and at least one C2-C20 α-olefin
except propylene and the melting point of the copolymer is lower than
100° C. or not observed when measured with a differential scanning
calorimeter.

[0198] The material for foam (X7) according to the seventh aspect of the
invention is preferably a composition containing 30 to 100 parts by
weight of propylene-based polymer (B7) and 0 to 70 parts by weight of
propylene-based polymer (A7) having a melting point of 100° C. or
higher as measured with a differential scanning calorimeter, wherein the
total of (B7) and (A7) is 100 parts by weight.

[0199] Material for foam (X7) according to the seventh aspect of the
invention is preferably a composition containing 1 to 1900 parts by
weight of ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) and/or 1 to 1900 parts
by weight of ethylene/polar monomer copolymer (D7) relative to 100 parts
by weight of the total of propylene-based polymer (B7) and, optional
propylene-based polymer (A7).

[0201] Material for foam (X7) according to the seventh aspect of the
invention preferably further contains a foaming agent (E7).

[0202] In material for foam (X7) according to the seventh aspect of the
invention, ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) is preferably
ethylene/1-butene copolymer.

[0203] The foam of the seventh aspect is obtained from material for foam
(X7).

[0204] The foam of the seventh aspect of the invention is preferably
obtained by heat treatment or radiation treatment of material for foam
(X7).

[0205] The foam of the seventh aspect of the invention is preferably
obtained by heat treatment of material for foam (X7) placed in a mold.

[0206] The foam of the seventh aspect of the invention is preferably
obtained by secondary compression of the above foam.

[0207] The foam of the seventh aspect of the invention preferably has a
gel content of 70% or more and a specific gravity of 0.6 or less.

[0208] The laminate of the seventh aspect of the invention has a layer
comprising the above foam and a layer made of at least one material
selected from polyolefin, polyurethane, rubber, leather, and artificial
leather.

[0209] The footwear of the seventh aspect of the invention comprises the
above foam or the above laminate.

[0210] The footwear component of the seventh aspect of the invention
comprises the above foam or laminate.

[0211] The footwear component is preferably a mid sole, an inner sole, or
a sole.

[0212] Resin composition (X8) according to the eighth aspect of the
invention contains

[0213] a thermoplastic resin composition containing

[0214] 0 to 90 wt % of propylene-based polymer (A8) whose melting point is
100° C. or higher as measured with a differential scanning
calorimeter and

[0215] 10 to 100 wt % of soft propylene-based copolymer (B8) that is a
copolymer of propylene and at least one C2-C20 α-olefin
except propylene, the Shore A hardness of (B8) being 30 to 80, the
melting point of (B8) being lower than 100° C. or not observed
when measured with a differential scanning calorimeter; and

[0216] relative to 100 parts by weight of the thermoplastic resin
composition (total of (A8) and (B8)),

[0217] 0.1 to 10 parts by weight of coupling agent (Y8) and 0 to 5 parts
by weigh of organic peroxide (Z8).

[0218] The laminate of the eighth aspect of the invention contains at
least one layer [a] containing resin composition (X8) and a layer [b]
containing a material selected from metal, an inorganic compound, and a
polar plastic material on one or both surfaces of layer [a].

[0219] The solar cell-sealing sheet according to the ninth aspect of the
invention contains thermoplastic resin composition (X9) composed of 0 to
70 wt % of propylene-based polymer (A9) whose melting point is
100° C. or higher as measured with a differential scanning
calorimeter and 30 to 100 wt % of soft propylene-based copolymer (B9)
that is a copolymer of propylene and at least one C2-C20
α-olefin except propylene, the Shore A hardness of (B9) being 30 to
80, the melting point of (B9) being lower than 100° C. or not
observed when measured with a differential scanning calorimeter.

[0220] In the solar cell-sealing sheet according to the ninth aspect of
the invention, soft propylene copolymer (B9) is preferably
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B9-1) containing 45 to 92
mol % of propylene-derived structural units, to 25 mol % of
ethylene-derived structural units, and 3 to 30 mol % of C4-C20
α-olefin-derived structural units, the melting point of (B9-1)
being lower than 100° C. or not observed when measured with DSC.

[0221] The solar cell-sealing sheet according to the ninth aspect
preferably contains 100 parts by weight of thermoplastic resin
composition (X9) and 0.1 to 5 parts by weight of coupling agent (Y9).

[0222] The solar cell-sealing sheet according to the ninth aspect of the
invention is preferably non-crosslinked.

[0223] The solar cell-sealing sheet according to the ninth aspect of the
invention preferably has an internal haze of 1.0% to 10% when the sheet
has a thickness of 1 mm.

[0224] The electrical/electronics element-sealing sheet according to the
tenth aspect of the invention has layer (I-10) made of an ethylene-based
copolymer having a Shore A hardness of 50 to 90 and an ethylene content
of 60 to 95 mol %; and layer (II-10) made of thermoplastic resin
composition (X10) containing 0 to 90 parts by weight of propylene-based
polymer (A10) whose melting point is 100° C. or higher as measured
with a differential scanning calorimeter and 10 to 100 parts by weight of
propylene-based copolymer (B10), wherein the total of (A10) and (B10) is
100 parts by weight. Here, copolymer (B10) is a copolymer of propylene
and at least one olefin selected from ethylene and C4-C20
α-olefins and has a Shore A hardness of 30 to 80 and the melting
point of (B10) is lower than 100° C. or not observed when measured
with a differential scanning calorimeter.

[0225] In the electrical/electronics element-sealing sheet according to
the tenth aspect of the invention, layer (I-10) preferably further
contains 0.1 to 5 parts by weight of a silane coupling agent, 0 to 5
parts by weight of an organic peroxide, and 0 to 5 parts by weight of a
weathering stabilizer relative to 100 parts by weight of the
ethylene-based copolymer.

[0226] In the electrical/electronics element-sealing sheet according to
the tenth aspect of the invention, the ethylene-based copolymer is
preferably a copolymer obtained using ethylene and at least one monomer
selected from the group consisting of vinyl acetate, acrylic esters,
methacrylic esters, propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, 4-methyl-1-pentene,
and 1-octene.

[0227] In the electrical/electronics element-sealing sheet according to
the tenth aspect of the invention, thermoplastic resin composition (X10)
preferably has a permanent compression set measured at 23° C. of
5% to 35% and a permanent compression set measured at 70° C. of
50% to 70%.

[0228] In the electrical/electronics element-sealing sheet according to
the tenth aspect of the invention, layer (I-10) made of the
ethylene-based copolymer and layer (II-10) made of thermoplastic resin
composition (X10) are preferably directly laminated with each other.

[0229] The solar cell-sealing sheet of the tenth aspect of the invention
comprises the above electrical/electronics element-sealing sheet.

[0230] The solar cell module of the tenth aspect of the invention is
fabricated with the above solar cell-sealing sheet.

[0231] Preferably, the solar cell module of the tenth aspect of the
invention further has a layer made of glass or polyester resin, wherein
the solar cell-sealing sheet is bonded to the layer made of glass or
polyester resin via layer (I-10).

[0232] Furthermore, the solar cell module of the tenth aspect of the
invention preferably has a silicon solar cell element, wherein the solar
cell-sealing sheet is bonded to the silicon solar cell element via layer
(II-10).

[0233] The electric power generator of the tenth aspect of the invention
has the above solar cell module.

Effects of the Invention

[0234] The present invention provides propylene-based resin compositions
suitable for various applications and the use thereof.

[0235] The thermoplastic resin composition of the first aspect of the
invention is excellent in mechanical properties and also in rubber
elasticity and permanent compression set at high temperatures as well as
normal temperature. When it contains a softener, the composition has
excellent balance, especially at high temperatures, between
appearance-retaining ability and rubber elasticity and permanent
compression set. The molded article of the first aspect of the invention
exhibits excellent mechanical properties and also excellent rubber
elasticity and permanent compression set at high temperatures as well as
normal temperature because the article contains at least one portion made
of the above thermoplastic resin composition. In addition, when a
softener is contained, the molded article has excellent balance,
especially at high temperature, between the appearance-retaining ability
and the rubber elasticity and permanent compression set. The
thermoplastic resin composition of the first aspect is suitably used for
various applications owing to the above properties.

[0236] The molded article made of the thermoplastic resin composition of
the second aspect of the invention or the crosslinked material thereof
exhibits well-balanced flexibility and scratch resistance and also has
excellent whitening resistance. The article, therefore, exerts excellent
performances as various molded articles such as automobile interior and
exterior components, home electric appliance components, construction and
building components, wrapping sheets, cap liners, gaskets, and
convenience goods.

[0237] The propylene-based polymer composition according to the third
aspect of the invention provides molded articles that are particularly
excellent in mechanical properties, transparency, whitening (on
orientation and heat treatment), and also are excellent in impact
resistance, scratch resistance, flexibility, transparency, stretching
property, rubber elasticity at room and high temperatures. Molded
articles made of the above composition are excellent in impact
resistance, scratch resistance, flexibility, transparency, stretching
property, room-temperature rubber elasticity, and high-temperature rubber
elasticity.

[0239] The polyolefin decorative sheet of the fifth aspect of the
invention is excellent in flexibility, scratch resistance, abrasion
resistance, whitening resistance on stretching, whitening resistance on
folding, wrinkle resistance, heat resistance, water resistance,
compression set resistance, and mechanical strength (strength at break).
In addition, the sheet can avoid problems such as dioxin generation on
incineration and adverse effects of plasticizers on human bodies.

[0240] The propylene-based resin composition of the sixth aspect of the
invention contains a large amount of an inorganic filler and is excellent
in flexibility, mechanical strength, elongation at break, and scratch
resistance. When it contains oil, the propylene-based resin composition
of the sixth aspect of the invention is especially excellent in scratch
resistance and low-temperature embrittlement resistance. Further, when it
contains a graft-modified polymer, the propylene-based resin composition
of the sixth aspect of the invention is especially excellent in scratch
resistance. The method for producing propylene-based resin compositions
according to the sixth aspect of the invention provides propylene-based
resin compositions excellent in flexibility, mechanical strength,
elongation at break, flame retardance, and especially in scratch
resistance. The propylene-based polymer composition of the sixth aspect
of the invention is suitable for use in producing the above
propylene-based resin composition, and in particular, provides the
composition with excellent scratch resistance. The propylene-based resin
composition of the sixth aspect of the invention is also suitable for use
in molded articles excellent in flame retardance, especially for
electrical wires, etc. because of the high content of inorganic filler.

[0241] The material for foam of the seventh aspect of the invention
provides foams with a low specific gravity and a small permanent
compression set excellent in tear strength, low resilience, and scratch
resistance. The foam of the seventh aspect of the invention has a low
specific gravity, a small permanent compression set, and is excellent in
tear strength, low resilience, and scratch resistance. The foam of the
seventh aspect of the invention may be used in a laminate. The foam and
laminate of the seventh aspect of the invention have a low specific
gravity, a small permanent compression set, and is excellent in tear
strength, low resilience, and scratch resistance; therefore they are
suitable for use in footwear and footwear components.

[0242] The resin composition of the eighth aspect of the invention is well
heat-bonded to inorganic materials such as metal and glass and to various
plastic materials and also excellent in peel strength over a wide range
of temperature. Further, a laminate obtained from the resin composition
of the eighth aspect of the invention is excellent in flexibility, heat
resistance, transparency, scratch resistance, rubber elasticity, and
mechanical strength; therefore it can be used suitably for various
applications.

[0243] The solar cell-sealing sheet of the ninth aspect of the invention
causes no adverse effect on the solar cell elements because it does not
generate gas derived from decomposition of the component materials. The
sheet is excellent in heat resistance, mechanical strength, flexibility
(solar cell-sealing property), and transparency. In addition, because
crosslinking of the component materials is not necessary, the time for
sheet molding and time for solar cell module production can be
significantly shortened, and also used solar cells can be easily
recycled.

[0244] The tenth aspect provides an electrical/electronic element-sealing
sheet with excellent adhesion to glass and others. The
electrical/electronic element-sealing sheet is suitably used outdoors and
practically valuable in sealing of solar cell elements and other uses.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0245] FIG. 3-1 shows the intensity of magnetization in decay process for
the sample prepared in Example 3-1.

[0246] FIG. 3-2 shows the intensity of magnetization in decay process for
the sample prepared in Example 3-2.

[0247] FIG. 3-3 shows the intensity of magnetization in decay process for
the sample prepared in Comparative Example 3-1.

[0248] FIG. 3-4 shows the intensity of magnetization in decay process for
the sample prepared in Comparative Example 3-2.

[0249] FIG. 3-5 shows the intensity of magnetization in decay process for
the sample prepared in Comparative Example 3-3.

[0250] FIG. 5-1 shows an example of a decorative board using the
polyolefin decorative sheet of the fifth aspect, in which the decorative
board has a layer made of propylene-based polymer composition (X5).

[0251] FIG. 5-2 shows an example of a decorative board using the
polyolefin decorative sheet of the fifth aspect, in which the decorative
board has a laminate composed of a layer made of propylene-based polymer
composition (X5) and a layer made of a polyolefin-based resin composition
other than propylene-based polymer composition (X5).

[0252] FIG. 9-1 shows an exemplary embodiment in which a solar
cell-sealing sheet is applied.

[0253] FIG. 10-1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating schematically the
solar cell module structure of an preferred embodiment related to the
tenth aspect; the solar cell module is sealed between 32 and 42, that is,
between layers (II-10).

[0267] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0268] The α-olefin-derived structural units may be present in the
polypropylene in a ratio of 35 mol % or less, and preferably 30 mol % or
less.

[0269] Isotactic polypropylene (A1) preferably has a melt flow rate (MFR)
at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg determined in accordance with
ASTM D1238 in the range of 0.01 to 1000 g/10 min, and preferably 0.05 to
100 g/10 min.

[0270] There may be used, if necessary, a plurality of isotactic
polypropylenes (A1) in combination, for example, two or more components
different in melting point or rigidity.

[0271] As isotactic polypropylene (A1), there may be used, according to
desired properties, any one or combination selected from
homopolypropylene excellent in heat resistance (known homopolypropylene,
generally having 3 mol % or less of copolymerized components except
propylene), block polypropylene having well-balanced heat resistance and
flexibility (known block polypropylene, generally containing 3 to 30 wt %
of n-decane-soluble rubber components), and random polypropylene having
well-balanced flexibility and transparency (known random polypropylene,
typical melting point is 110° C. to 150° C. as measured
with a DSC).

[0272] Such isotactic polypropylene (A1) can be produced, for example, by
polymerizing propylene or copolymerizing propylene and the
α-olefin(s), with a Ziegler catalyst system composed of a solid
catalyst component containing magnesium, titanium, halogen, and an
electron donor as essential components, an organoaluminum compound, and
an electron donor, or a metallocene catalyst system containing a
metallocene as one catalytic component.

<Propylene/Ethylene/α-Olefin Copolymer (B1)>

[0273] Propylene/ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B1) used in the
first aspect contains propylene-derived structural units in an amount of
45 to 89 mol %, preferably 52 to 85 mol %, and more preferably 60 to 80
mol %, ethylene-derived structural units in an amount of 10 to 25 mol %,
preferably 10 to 23 mol %, and more preferably 12 to 23 mol %, and
optionally C4-C20 α-olefin-derived structural units (a1)
in an amount of 0 to 30 mol %, preferably 0 to 25 mol %, and more
preferably 0 to 20 mol %. When C4-C20 α-olefin-derived
structural units (a1) are contained as an essential component, the
content of propylene-derived structural units is preferably 45 to 89 mol
%, more preferably 52 to 85 mol %, and still more preferably 60 to 80 mol
%; the content of ethylene-derived structural units is preferably 10 to
25 mol %, more preferably 10 to 23 mol %, and still more preferably 12 to
23 mol %; and the content of the C4-C20 α-olefin-derived
structural units (a1) is preferably 1 to 30 mol %, more preferably 3 to
25 mol %, and still more preferably 5 to 20 mol %.

[0276] The stress at 100% elongation (M100) of
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) is generally 4 MPa or
less, preferably 3 MPa or less, and more preferably 2 MPa or less, when
measured in accordance with JIS K6301 with a JIS #3 dumbbell at span of
30 mm at a tensile speed of 30 mm/min at 23° C. With the above
range of stress at 100% elongation, propylene/ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer (B1) exhibits excellent flexibility, transparency, and rubber
elasticity.

[0277] The crystallinity of propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer
(B1) determined by X-ray diffractometry is generally 20% or less, and
preferably 0 to 15%.

[0278] It is desired that propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1)
has a single glass transition temperature (Tg) and the Tg measured with a
DSC is generally -10° C. or lower, and preferably -15° C.
or lower. With the above range of Tg, propylene/ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer (B1) exhibits excellent cold-temperature resistance and
low-temperature characteristics.

[0279] When propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) exhibits a
melting point (Tm in ° C.) in the endothermic curve obtained with
a DSC, generally its melting endothermic entalpy, ΔH, is 30 J/g or
less and the following relation is satisfied between C3 (propylene)
content (mol %) and ΔH (J/g) wherein "C3 content" means the
proportion of propylene-derived structural units determined by analyzing
the C13--NMR spectrum.

[0281] In order to obtain propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1)
satisfying the above relation between propylene content (mol %) and
melting endothermic enthalpy DH (J/g), the crystallinity of the copolymer
is lowered by appropriately selecting polymerization conditions. For
example, the copolymer with a low crystallinity can be obtained by
selecting an appropriate catalyst. In propylene/ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer (B1) obtained with such a catalyst, even when the propylene
content is unchanged, the melting endothermic entalpy ΔH decreases,
thereby satisfying the above relation between propylene content (Mol %)
and ΔH (J/g). An example of suitable catalysts for lowering the
crystallinity is disclosed in Examples of the present specification.

[0282] The crystallinity of propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer
(B1) can be regulated also by selecting the polymerization temperature
and pressure as appropriate. For example, elevating the polymerization
temperature can yield the copolymer with a lower crystallinity. Reducing
the polymerization pressure also yields the copolymer with a lower
crystallinity. Such polymerization conditions result in
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) with a lower melting
endothermic entalpy, ΔH, thereby satisfying the above relation
between propylene content (mol %) and ΔH (J/g), even with the
propylene content unchanged.

[0284] The melting point of propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer
(B1) is generally lower than 100° C., or preferably not observed
when measured with a DSC. Here, "melting point is not observed" means
that any crystal melting peak having a heat of crystal melting of 1 J/g
or more is not observed in the temperature range of -150° C. to
200° C. The measurement conditions are as described in Examples of
the first aspect of invention.

[0285] The triad tacticity (mm-fraction) of
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) determined by
13C-NMR is preferably 85% or more, more preferably 85% to 97.5%,
still more preferably 87% to 97%, and particularly preferably 90% to 97%.
With the above range of mm-fraction, the copolymer is particularly
excellent in balance of flexibility and mechanical strength, and
therefore suitable for the first aspect of the invention. The mm-fraction
can be determined by the method described in WO 04/087775 from Page 21
line 7 to Page 26 line 6.

[0287] Such modified propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer is
obtained by graft-polymerizing the polar monomer to
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1). In graft polymerization
of propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) with the polar
monomer, the polar monomer is used in an amount of generally 1 to 100
parts by weight, and preferably 5 to 80 parts by weight, relative to 100
parts by weight of propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1). A
radical initiator is generally used in the graft polymerization.

[0288] As the radical initiator, an organic peroxide, an azo compound, or
others may be used. The radical initiator may be mixed directly with
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) and the polar monomer,
or may be dissolved in a small amount of an organic solvent prior to
mixing. Any organic solvent capable of dissolving the radical initiator
may be used without particular limitations.

[0289] A reducing substance may be used in graft polymerization of the
polar monomer to propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1). The
reducing substance increases the grafting amount of the polar monomer.

[0290] Conventional methods may be used for graft-modification of
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) with the polar monomer.
For example, there may be mentioned a method in which
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) is dissolved in an
organic solvent; the polar monomer, radical initiator, and others are
added to the resulting solution; and the reaction is conducted at 70 to
200° C., preferably 80 to 190° C., for 0.5 to 15 hr,
preferably 1 to 10 hr.

[0291] Alternatively, the modified propylene/ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer can be produced by reacting propylene/ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer (B1) with the polar monomer using an extruder or others without
any solvent. It is desirable that the reaction is performed generally at
a temperature equal to or higher than the melting point of
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1), specifically at 120 to
250° C., generally for 0.5 to 10 min.

[0293] When the propylene-based polymer composition of the first aspect of
the invention contains the modified propylene/ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer, it attains excellent adhesion and compatibility with other
resins, and molded articles formed from the propylene-based polymer
composition have improved surface wettability in some cases.

[0294] Propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) can be produced
with the metallocene catalyst used for producing isotactic polypropylene
(A1) by similar procedures to those in producing (A1), but the production
is not limited thereto. For example, the catalyst described in WO
04/087775 may be used.

<Styrene-Based Elastomer (C1)>

[0295] As styrene-based elastomer (C1) used in the first aspect of the
invention, styrene/diene thermoplastic elastomers can be given, but the
styrene-based elastomer is not limited thereto. In particular, block
copolymer elastomers and random copolymer elastomers are preferred. In
such elastomers, the styrene-type monomer is exemplified by styrene,
α-methylstyrene, p-methylstyrene, vinylxylene, vinylnaphthalene,
mixtures thereof, and others; and the diene-type monomer is exemplified
by butadiene, isoprene, pentadiene, mixtures theirof, and others.

[0297] The content of styrene-type monomer component in the styrene
thermoplastic elastomer is not particularly limited, but is preferably in
the range of 5 to 40 wt %, considering flexibility and rubber elasticity
in particular.

[0298] Styrene-based elastomers (C1) may be used alone or in combination.
Commercial products may also be used as styrene-based elastomer (C1).

<Ethylene/α-Olefin Random Copolymer (D1)>

[0299] Ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (D1) optionally used in
the first aspect of the invention refers to a copolymer of ethylene and a
C3-C20 α-olefin, preferably a C3-C10
α-olefin. Copolymers having the following properties are preferably
used:

[0300] (a) the density in accordance with ASTM 1505 at 23° C. is
0.850 to 0.910 g/cm3, preferably 0.860 to 0.905 g/cm3, and more
preferably 0.865 to 0.895 g/cm3; and

[0301] (b) the MFR measured at 190° C. under a load of 2.16 kg is
0.1 to 150 g/10 min, and preferably 0.3 to 100 g/10 min.

[0302] Ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (D1) having these
properties is preferably used, because a softener is well retained in the
composition.

[0303] There is no limitation on the method for producing the
ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (D1). The copolymer can be
produced by copolymerizing ethylene and the α-olefin with a
radical-polymerization catalyst, Philips catalyst, Ziegler-Natta
catalyst, or a metallocene catalyst. In particular, the copolymer
produced with a metallocene catalyst has a molecular weight distribution
(Mw/Mn) of generally 3 or less, which is suitable for use in the first
aspect of the invention.

[0304] The crystallinity of ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (D1)
measured by X-ray diffractometry is generally 40% or less, preferably 0
to 39%, and more preferably 0 to 35%.

[0305] Specific examples of the C3-C20 α-olefin used as a
co-monomer include propylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene,
4-methyl-1-pentene, 1-octene, 1-decene, and 1-dodecene. These are used
alone or in combination. Among them, propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, and
1-octene are preferable. Furthermore, if necessary, a small amount of
(an)other co-monomer(s), for example, a diene such as 1,6-hexadiene or
1,8-octadiene, or a cycloolefin such as cyclopentene, may be used. The
α-olefin content in the copolymer is generally 3 to 50 mol %,
preferably 5 to 30 mol %, and more preferably 5 to 25 mol %.

[0306] The molecular structure of the copolymer may be linear or branched
with long or short side-chains. Further, a plurality of different
ethylene/α-olefin random copolymers (D1) may be used as a mixture.

[0307] Ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (D1) can be produced by
known methods using a vanadium catalyst, a titanium catalyst, a
metallocene catalyst, or the like. For example, there may be mentioned
the method described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No.
H10-212382.

<Softener (E1)>

[0308] Softener (E1) optionally used in the first aspect of the invention
may be selected from various oils such as paraffin oil and silicon oil.
In particular, paraffin oil is suitably used. For the oils suitably used,
the kinematic viscosity at 40° C. is 20 to 800 cSt (centistokes)
and preferably 40 to 600 cSt, the pour point is 0 to -40° C. and
preferably 0 to -30° C., and the flash point (COC test) is 200 to
400° C. and preferably 250 to 350° C.

[0309] One of the oils suitably used for the first aspect of the invention
is naphthene process oil, which is a petroleum-derived softener blended
in rubber processing for softening, dispersing components, lubricating,
or other purposes. This oil contains 30 to 45 wt % of naphthene-type
hydrocarbons. Blending such process oil further improves the melt-pour
point of resin compositions on molding and the flexibility of molded
articles, and also reduces occurrence of surface stickiness caused by
bleeding in molded articles. In the first aspect, a naphthene process oil
having an aromatic hydrocarbon content of 10 wt % or less is used. Using
the naphthene oil reduces incidence of surface bleeding in molded
articles.

<Thermoplastic Resin Composition (X1)>

[0310] Thermoplastic resin composition (X1) of the first aspect of the
invention contains (A1), (B1), (C1), and if necessary, (D1):

[0314] 0 to 70 wt % of ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (D1) having a
density of 0.850 to 0.910 g/cm3, wherein the total of
(A1)+(B1)+(C1)+(D1) is 100 wt %.

[0315] The content of component (A1) is preferably 5 to 80 wt %, and more
preferably 10 to 75 wt %; the content of component (B1) is preferably 5
to 92 wt %, and more preferably 10 to 75 wt %; the content of component
(C1) is preferably 3 to 75 wt %, and more preferably 5 to 65 wt %; and
the content of component (D1) is preferably 0 to 65 wt %, and more
preferably 0 to 60 wt %.

[0316] When component (D1) is contained as an essential component, the
content of each component is as follows: the content of component (A1) is
preferably 1 to 89 wt %, more preferably 5 to 80 wt %, and still more
preferably 10 to 75 wt %; the content of component (B1) is preferably 9
to 97 wt %, more preferably 5 to 90 wt %, and still more preferably 10 to
75 wt %; the content of component (C1) is preferably 1 to 80 wt %, more
preferably 3 to 75 wt %, and still more preferably 5 to 65 wt %; and the
content of component (D1) is preferably 1 to 70 wt %, more preferably 2
to 65 wt %, and still more preferably 5 to 60 wt %.

[0317] Thermoplastic resin composition (X1) preferably contains softener
(E1) in an amount of 1 to 400 parts by weight, preferably 1 to 200 parts
by weight, and still more preferably 1 to 150 parts by weight, relative
to 100 parts by weight of the total of components (A1), (B1), (C1), and
if any, (D1).

[0318] As long as the objective of the first aspect of the invention is
not impaired, thermoplastic resin composition (X1) may also contain other
resins, other rubbers, inorganic filler, or others; and also may contain
additives such as weathering stabilizers, heat stabilizers, antistatic
agents, anti-slip agents, anti-blocking agents, anti-fogging agents,
lubricants, pigments, dyes, plasticizers, anti-aging agents, hydrochloric
acid absorbers, antioxidants, and nucleating agents. The amount of these
additional resins, rubbers, inorganic filler, and additives to be mixed
in thermoplastic resin composition (X1) is not particularly limited
unless the objective of the first aspect is impaired. In an embodiment,
the total of isotactic polypropylene (A1),
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B1), styrene-based
elastomer (C1), if necessary ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer
(D1), and if necessary softener (E1) is 60 to 100 wt % and preferably 80
to 100 wt % of the whole composition, and the remainder is accounted for
by the above-described other resins, rubbers, additives, inorganic
filler, and others.

[0319] Thermoplastic resin composition (X1) can be obtained with a known
kneader (for example, single-screw or twin-screw extruder, Banbury mixer,
roll mixer, calendar mixer, etc.), preferably with a molding machine
capable of continuous kneading and extruding such as a single-screw or
twin-screw extruder.

[0320] Although the composition is preferably non-crosslinked for
facilitating recycling in accordance with the objective of the first
aspect of the invention, it may be crosslinked as necessary. For
crosslinking, there may be employed a method of dynamic crosslinking
using a known crosslinker or crosslinking auxiliary or a method in which
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) is kneaded with a crosslinker,
crosslinking auxiliary, or others and molded, followed by
post-crosslinking with heating or electron beam irradiation.

<Molded Article at Least Part of which is Made of Thermoplastic Resin
Composition (X1)>

[0321] Thermoplastic resin composition (X1) according to the first aspect
of the invention may be shaped into various articles, for example,
sheets, unoriented or oriented films, filaments, and others with various
shapes. The molded article at least part of which is made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) may be a molded article the whole of
which is made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) or may be a
composite article of the thermoplastic resin composition with other
materials in which a portion of the article is made of thermoplastic
resin composition (X1). For example, the molded article according to the
first aspect of the invention may be a multilayer laminate. In this case,
at least one layer of the laminate contains thermoplastic resin
composition (X1). For example, there may be mentioned multilayer films,
multilayer sheets, multilayer containers, multi layer tubes, multilayer
coating films in which the composition is contained as one of the
constituents of water-based paint, and others.

[0323] For example, when the molded article according to the first aspect
of the invention is an extrusion-molded article, the shapes and product
types are not particularly limited, and include sheets, films
(unoriented), pipes, hoses, electrical wire covers, tubes, and others. In
particular, preferred are sheets (for example, skin material, etc.),
films, tubes, catheters, monofilaments, nonwoven fabrics, and others.

[0324] For extrusion molding of thermoplastic resin composition (X1),
known extruders and molding conditions can be employed. For example, a
molded article with a desired shape can be obtained by extruding melted
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) with an extruder, such as
single-screw extruder, kneading extruder, ram extruder, or gear extruder,
through a predetermined die or the like.

[0325] An oriented film can be obtained by drawing the above extruded
sheets or films (unoriented) by known methods such as tentering
(longitudinal-transverse or transverse-longitudinal orientation),
simultaneous biaxial orientation, and uniaxial orientation.

[0326] In drawing the sheet or unoriented film, the draw ratio is
generally about 20 to 70 in biaxial drawing, and about 2 to 10 in
uniaxial drawing. It is preferred that the oriented film obtained by
drawing has a thickness of about 5 to 200 μm.

[0327] As film-shape molded articles, inflation films may be produced. On
inflation molding, drawdown is not likely to develop.

[0328] Such sheet-shaped or film-shaped molded articles at least part of
which is made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) as described above
are less electrostatically charged and are excellent in rigidity such as
tensile modulus, heat resistance, stretching property, impact resistance,
aging resistance, transparency, translucency, gloss, stiffness, moisture
resistance, and gas barrier property. They can be widely used as
packaging films and others. The sheet-shaped or film-shaped molded
article made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) may be a multilayer
molded article having at least one layer of thermoplastic resin
composition (X1).

[0329] Filament-shaped molded articles can be produced, for example, by
extruding melted thermoplastic resin composition (X1) through a
spinneret. The filament thus obtained may be further drawn. The drawing
should be performed to orient the molecules along at least one axis of
the filament, and the draw ratio is preferably about 5 to 10. The
filament made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) is less
electrostatically charged and is excellent in transparency, rigidity,
heat resistance, impact resistance, and stretching property. As the
method for producing nonwoven fabrics, there may be mentioned the
spunbond method and the melt-blowing method. The resulting nonwoven
fabrics are less electrostatically charged and are excellent in rigidity,
heat resistance, impact resistance, and stretching property.

[0330] Injection-molded articles can be produced by injection molding
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) into various shapes using known
injection molding machines and conditions. The injection-molded articles
made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) are less electrostatically
charged and are excellent in transparency, rigidity, heat resistance,
impact resistance, surface gloss, chemical resistance, abrasion
resistance, and the like; hence they are widely used in automobile
interior trims, automobile exterior components, housings for home
electric appliances, containers, and others.

[0331] Blow-molded articles can be produced by blow molding thermoplastic
resin composition (X1) using known blow molding machines and conditions.
Here, the blow-molded article at least part of which is made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) may be a multilayer molded article
containing at least one layer of thermoplastic resin composition (X1).

[0332] For example, in extrusion blow molding, a hollow molded article can
be produced by extruding thermoplastic resin composition (X1) through a
die in a molten state at a resin temperature of 100° C. to
300° C. to form a tubular parison, which is held in a mold with a
desired shape and subsequently shaped to the mold at a resin temperature
of 130° C. to 300° C. by blowing air thereinto. The blow
ratio is desirably about 1.5 to 5 in the transverse direction.

[0333] In injection blow molding, a hollow molded article can be produced
by injecting thermoplastic resin composition (X1) into a parison mold at
a resin temperature of 100° C. to 300° C. to form a
parison, which is held in a mold with a desired shape and subsequently
shaped to the mold at a resin temperature of 120° C. to
300° C. by blowing air thereinto. The blow ratio is desirably 1.1
to 1.8 in the longitudinal direction and 1.3 to 2.5 in the transverse
direction.

[0334] The blow-molded article at least part of which is made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) is excellent in transparency,
flexibility, heat resistance, impact resistance, and moisture resistance.

[0335] The press-molded articles include stamping-molded articles. For
example, when a base material and a skin material are press-molded at a
time into a composite (stamping molding), the base material can be formed
from the propylene composition according to the first aspect of the
invention.

[0337] The press-molded articles at least part of which is made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) are less electrostatically charged
and are excellent inflexibility, heat resistance, transparency, impact
resistance, aging resistance, surface gloss, chemical resistance, and
abrasion resistance.

[0338] In one embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the molded
article having at least portion made of the thermoplastic resin
composition (X1) is a film or sheet, a monofilament, a fiber, or nonwoven
fabric. These are useful as stretching materials.

[0339] The molded articles at least part of which is made of the
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) are excellent in mechanical
properties such as hardness, excellent in rubber elasticity and permanent
compression set not only at normal temperature but also at high
temperatures, and excellent in transparency and scratch resistance. In
addition, even when the softener is contained, the articles are
well-balanced in appearance-retaining ability and rubber elasticity and
permanent compression set, particularly at high temperature. The molded
articles are easily recycled and produced in a cost-effective manner.
Therefore, thermoplastic resin composition (X1) is suitable for use for
automobile interior components, automobile exterior components, home
electric appliance components, construction and building components,
wrapping sheets, cap liners, gaskets, and convenience goods. In
particular, the composition is suitably used for automobile interior and
exterior components, which are required to exhibit rubber elasticity even
at high temperatures.

[0340] The automobile interior components at least part of which is made
of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) include, for example, door trims,
gaskets, and others.

[0341] The automobile exterior components at least part of which is made
of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) include bumpers and others.

[0342] The home electric appliance components at least part of which is
made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) include packings and others.

[0343] The construction or building components at least part of which is
made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) include waterproof sheets,
floorings, and others.

[0344] The packaging sheets at least part of which is made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) include mono-layer sheets and
multilayer sheets using the resin composition of the first aspect of the
invention in at least one layer.

[0345] The cap liners at least part of which is made of thermoplastic
resin composition (X1) include liners for potable water bottle caps and
others. As the method for producing the cap liner, there may be mentioned
a method of punching out a sheet prepared from thermoplastic resin
composition (X1) with a sheet-forming machine.

[0346] As the method for producing caps having the cap liner of the first
aspect, there may be mentioned, for example, (1) method in which the cap
liner is bonded to the inside top face of a cap with an adhesive, (2)
sheet punching method in which the cap liner in molten or semi-molten
state is bonded to the inside top face of a cap, and (3) in-shell molding
method in which the source materials for the cap liner of the first
aspect are melt-kneaded with an extruder or the like, and the melt of the
resulting composition is placed on the inside top face of a cap and
stamped therein into a cap liner shape. The cap liner of the first aspect
of the invention can be attached to any of plastic caps and metal caps
regardless of a cap material.

[0347] The cap having the cap liner of the first aspect of the invention
can be attached to packaging containers for beverages such as mineral
water, tea, carbonated drinks, sports drinks, fruits drinks, and milk
beverage, and food products such as grilled meat sauce, soybean sauce,
sauce, mayonnaise, and ketchup.

[0348] The convenience goods at least part of which is made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) include grips and others.

[0349] For each of the automobile interior components, automobile exterior
components, home electric appliance components, construction or building
components, packaging sheets, cap liners, gaskets, and convenience goods
at least part of which is made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1),
the whole body may be made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) or it
may be a composite of the thermoplastic resin composition with other
materials in which a portion of the composite is made of thermoplastic
resin composition (X1).

[0350] The decorative sheet at least part of which is made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) has at least one layer made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X1). Hereinafter, the decorative sheet
is explained.

[0351] The decorative sheet of the first aspect of the invention is used,
for example, for conventional decorative boards in which the sheet is
bonded on the surface of base materials such as plywood, steel plate,
aluminum plate, particle board, MDF (medium-density fiberboard),
inorganic board (such as gypsum board), concrete wall, plastic board,
foam, and heat insulator, with an adhesive or by another method. The
decorative sheets of the first aspect include building material
protective sheets, for example, a sheet used for the surface layer of
floor, wall, ceiling, or other parts. Both decorative sheets and building
material protective sheets are used for protecting surfaces and for
producing design such as print or pictures.

[0352] A typical example of the decorative sheet of the first aspect of
the invention contains at least one layer of thermoplastic resin
composition (X1). The decorative sheet may contain two or more layers of
thermoplastic resin composition (X1), in which case the two or more
layers may be composed of the same components or different components
from each other.

[0353] The decorative sheet of the first aspect of the invention may
contain, besides the layer(s) made of thermoplastic resin composition
(X1), known component layers for decorative sheets, such as a layer
displaying print and picture designs, a surface-coating layer, a
luster-adjusting layer, a shielding layer (which prevents the substrate
surface from being seen through a foreground layer, and in some cases,
serves as a base material), and an adhesive layer bonding these layers
together.

[0354] The structure of the decorative sheet according to the first aspect
of the invention is not particularly limited. One example is a structure
in which the decorative sheet contains a layer [a] made of thermoplastic
resin composition (X1), at least one layer [b] selected from a print
layer, a picture layer, and a shielding layer, and optionally at least
one layer [c] selected from a surface-coating layer and a
luster-adjusting layer.

[0355] Another example is a structure in which the decorative sheet
contains a shielding layer [d], a layer [a] made of thermoplastic resin
composition (X1), at least one layer [b] selected from a print layer and
a picture layer, and optionally at least one layer [c] selected from a
surface-coating layer and a luster-adjusting layer.

[0356] The layer made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) is excellent
in scratch resistance, abrasion resistance, whitening resistance on
folding, wrinkle resistance, heat resistance, and transparency, and is
therefore suitable for use as a protective layer for protecting a print
or picture layer (that is, used as a surface layer protecting a print or
picture layer; a known treatment may be applied to the layer made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X1) to provide a surface-coating layer,
a luster-adjusting layer, or others thereon unless the objectives of the
first aspect of the invention are impaired). Decorative sheets with such
structure are particularly preferable.

[0357] Since the layer made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) is
also excellent in flexibility and water resistance, it can be suitably
used as one layer in combination with a layer of other components. In
this case, the layer made of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) can be
bonded without a known adhesive or an adhesive having the same effect as
the known adhesives. Specifically, sufficient bond strength can be
attained by known hot-melt bonding techniques such as heat lamination,
extrusion lamination, sandwich lamination, and co-extrusion.

[0358] Therefore, the layer of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) can be
suitably used for a decorative sheet in combination with layers made of a
polyolefin-based resin other than the thermoplastic resin composition
(X1), that is, layers made of a polyolefin-based resin out of the scope
of thermoplastic resin composition (X1) (including known adhesive
polyolefin resin layers).

[0359] The thickness of the layer made of thermoplastic resin composition
(X1) is not particularly limited, but is generally 5 to 2000 μm.

[0360] To the decorative sheet or construction material protective sheet
of the first aspect of the invention, there may be applied known
treatments such as embossing, engravning, and wiping.

[0361] The decorative sheet or construction material protective sheet of
the first aspect of the invention can be suitably used in a laminate in
which the back surface of the layer made of thermoplastic resin
composition (X1) is bonded to a layer made of a polyolefin-based resin
other than thermoplastic resin composition (X1) without an adhesive. The
polyolefin based resin other than thermoplastic resin composition (X1)
used herein may be any resin other than thermoplastic resin composition
(X1). That is, any resin that is not included in thermoplastic resin
composition (X1) may be used without limitations. Specifically, such
resins include polyethylene, polypropylene, poly-α-olefin,
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer, ethylene/polar vinyl monomer
copolymer, a mixed resin composition thereof, and others.

[0363] There is no particular limitation on the method for producing the
decorative sheet or building material protective sheet of the first
aspect of the invention. Known methods may be employed.

[0364] There is no particular limitation on the application of the
decorative sheet or building material protective sheet of the first
aspect. The sheet can be suitably used for home electric appliances and
furniture such as TV cabinets, stereo-speaker boxes, video recorder
cabinets, various storage furniture, and united furniture; housing
members such as doors, doorframes, window sashes, crown, plinth, and
opening frames; furniture members such as doors of kitchen furniture and
storage furniture; building materials such as floor material, ceiling
material, and wall paper; automobile interior materials; stationery;
office goods; and others.

2. Second Aspect

[0365] Hereinafter, the second aspect of the present invention will be
described in detail.

<Isotactic Polypropylene (A2)>

[0366] Examples of isotactic polypropylenes (A2) optionally used in the
second aspect of the invention include homopolypropylene and copolymers
of propylene and at least one C2-C20 α-olefin except
propylene. Specific examples of the C2-C20 α-olefin
except propylene include the same as those for isotactic polypropylene
(A1) used in the first aspect of the invention. Also, the preferable
range is the same.

[0367] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0368] The polypropylene may contain structural units derived from such
α-olefin in an amount of 20 mol % or less, and preferably 15 mol %
or less.

[0369] The melting point of isotactic polypropylene (A2) measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) is generally 100 to 170°
C. (except 100° C.), preferably 105 to 170° C., and more
preferably 110 to 165° C.

[0370] There may be used, if necessary, a plurality of isotactic
polypropylenes (A2) together, for example, two or more components
different in melting point or rigidity.

[0371] Isotactic polypropylene (A2) preferably has the same properties as
those of isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first aspect of the
invention concerning an isotactic pentad fraction (mmmm) and an MFR.

[0372] In order to attain desired properties, isotactic polypropylene (A2)
may be one or more polypropylenes selected from homopolypropylene
excellent in heat resistance, block polypropylene with well-balanced heat
resistance and flexibility, and random polypropylene with well-balanced
flexibility and transparency, like isotactic polypropylene (A1) of the
first aspect of the invention.

[0373] Isotactic polypropylene (A2) can be produced by the method similar
to that for producing isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first
aspect of the invention.

<Propylene/α-Olefin Copolymer (B2)>

[0374] Propylene/α-olefin copolymers (B2) used in the second aspect
include propylene/ethylene copolymer and copolymers of propylene and at
least one C4-C20 α-olefin. The C4-C20
α-olefins include 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-octene, 1-decene, and
others. Copolymers of propylene and at least one C4-C20
α-olefin are preferable and propylene/1-butene copolymer is more
preferable.

[0375] The melting point of propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2) is
generally not higher than 100° C. or not observed when measured
with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The melting point is
preferably 30 to 90° C., and more preferably 40 to 85° C.
Here, "melting point is not observed" means that any melting endothermic
peak of crystal with a melting endothermic entalpy of crystal of 1 J/g or
more is not observed in the temperature range of -150 to 200° C.
The measurement conditions are as described in Examples of the second
aspect of the invention.

[0377] With propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2), it is preferred that
the melting point of Tm (° C.) and the co-monomer content (M in
mol %) determined by 13C-NMR satisfy the relation,

146exp(-0.022M)≧Tm≧125exp(-0.032M).

[0378] Any copolymer satisfying the above relation may be used in the
second aspect without particular limitation on "M", but "M" is generally
in the range of 5 to 45.

[0379] In propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2), the melt flow rate
(MFR) determined at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg in accordance
with ASTM D1238 (in the present specification, often called "MFR"
(230° C.)) is generally 0.1 to 40 g/10 min, and preferably 0.5 to
20 g/10 min.

[0380] Propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2) preferably has the same
triad tacticity (mm-fraction) as that of
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) of the first aspect of
the invention, whereby the same effect can be obtained.

[0381] Namely, the triad tacticity (mm-fraction) of
propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2) is preferably 85% or more, more
preferably 85% to 97.5%, still more preferably 87% to 97%, and
particularly preferably 90% to 97% as determined by 13C-NMR. With
the above range of triad tacticity (mm-fraction), particularly
well-balanced flexibility and mechanical strength is attained, which is
desirable for the present invention. The mm-fraction can be determined
with the method described in WO 04/087775 from page 21, line 7 to page
26, line 6.

[0382] Propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2) is publicly known and can
be produced by the method described in WO 04/087775.
Propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2) is preferably produced using a
metallocene catalyst.

[0384] Styrene-based elastomer (C2) is the same as styrene-based elastomer
(C1) used in the first aspect of the invention. The type and styrene
content thereof are also the same as (C1).

<Ethylene/α-Olefin Random Copolymer (D2)>

[0385] The method for producing ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer
(D2) is not particularly limited, but there is employed a known method
using a vanadium catalyst, a titanium catalyst, a metallocene catalyst,
or the like. In particular, the copolymer produced using the metallocene
catalyst generally has a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of 3 or
less, and is suitably used for the second aspect of the invention.

[0386] Ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (D2) is the same as
ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (D1) used in the first aspect of
the invention except for the production method.

<Softener (E2)>

[0387] Softener (E2) is the same as softener (E1) used in the first aspect
of the invention.

<Thermoplastic Resin Composition (X2)>

[0388] Thermoplastic resin composition (X2) of the second aspect of the
invention comprises (A2), (B2), (C2), (D2), and (E2):

[0389] 5 to 95 wt % of propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2) whose
melting point is not higher than 100° C. or not observed when
measured with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC);

[0393] softener (E2) in an amount of 0 to 400 parts by weight relative to
100 parts by weight of the total of (A2)+(B2)+(C2)+(D2).

[0394] Here, the content of component (B2) is preferably 5 to 85 wt %, and
more preferably 10 to 75 wt %; the content of component (C2) is
preferably 15 to 95 wt %, and more preferably 25 to 90 wt %; the content
of component (A2) is preferably 0 to 80 wt %, and more preferably 0 to 65
wt %; and the content of component (D2) is preferably 0 to 65 wt %, and
more preferably 0 to 60 wt %.

[0395] When component (A2) is contained as an essential component, the
content of component (B2) is 5 to 94 wt %, preferably 5 to 83 wt %, and
more preferably 10 to 72 wt %; the content of component (C2) is 5 to 95
wt %, preferably 15 to 95 wt %, and more preferably 25 to 90 wt %; the
content of component (A2) is 1 to 90 wt %, preferably 2 to 80 wt %, and
more preferably 3 to 65 wt %; and the content of component (D2) is 0 to
70 wt %, preferably 0 to 65 wt %, and more preferably 0 to 60 wt %.

[0396] Thermoplastic resin composition (X2) may also contain softener (E2)
in an amount of 0 to 400 parts by weight, preferably 0 to 200 parts by
weight, and more preferably 0 to 150 parts by weight, relative to 100
parts by weight of the total of (A2), (B2), (C2), and (D2). When
component (E2) is contained in the composition, the lower limit of the
content of (E2) is not limited to, but, for example, 1 part by weight or
more relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of (A2), (B2), (C2),
and (D2).

[0397] For instance, when the composition (X2) contains isotactic
polypropylene (A2) as an essential component and is used for convenience
goods, skin materials (artificial leather), cap liners, automobile
interior materials, packing, gaskets, waterproof sheets, or the like as
described later, the content of component (B2) is 5 to 50 wt %,
preferably 15 to 50 wt %, and more preferably 20 to 45 wt %; the content
of component (C2) is 5 to 90 wt %, preferably 10 to 80 wt %, and more
preferably 20 to 75 wt %; the content of component (A2) is 5 to 45 wt %,
preferably 5 to 40 wt %, and more preferably 5 to 35 wt %; and the
content of component (D2) is 0 to 50 wt %, preferably 0 to 40 wt %, and
more preferably 0 to 30 wt %. Here, (X2) may also contain, as an optional
component, softener (E2) in an amount of 1 to 400 parts by weight,
preferably 1 to 350 parts by weight, and more preferably 1 to 300 parts
by weight, relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of (A2), (B2),
(C2), and (D2). The composition provides well-balanced flexibility with
scratch and whitening resistances, and it can be well kneaded even at low
temperatures.

[0398] For instance, when (X2) contains isotactic polypropylene (A2) as an
essential component and it is used for home electric appliance
components, automobile exterior materials, packaging sheets,
monofilaments, or the like as described later, the content of component
(B2) is 5 to 45 wt %, preferably 5 to 35 wt %, and more preferably 5 to
30 wt %; the content of component (C2) is 5 to 45 wt %, preferably 5 to
35 wt %, and more preferably 5 to 30 wt %; the content of component (A2)
is 50 to 90 wt %, preferably 60 to 90 wt %, and more preferably 65 to 90
wt %; and the content of component (D2) is 0 to 30 wt %, preferably 0 to
25 wt %, and more preferably 0 to 20 wt %. Here, (X2) may also contain,
as an optional component, softener (E2) in an amount of 1 to 100 parts by
weight, preferably 1 to 70 parts by weight, and more preferably 1 to 50
parts by weight, relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of (A2),
(B2), (C2), and (D2). With such composition, particularly, well-balanced
mechanical properties such as tensile modulus, transparency, impact
resistance, scratch resistance, and whitening resistance can be attained.

[0399] Unless the objects of the second aspect of the invention are
impaired, thermoplastic resin composition (X2) may contain other resins,
other rubbers, inorganic fillers or others; and may further contain
additives like those for the first aspect of the invention. The content
of these additional resins, rubbers, inorganic fillers, and additives is
not particularly limited unless the objects of the second aspect of the
invention are impaired. An exemplary embodiment concerning the content of
these additional resins, rubbers, inorganic fillers, and additives is the
same as that in the first aspect of the invention.

[0400] That is, unless the objects of the second aspect of the invention
are impaired, thermoplastic resin composition (X2) may additionally
contain other resins, other rubbers, inorganic fillers, or others, and
also additives such as weathering stabilizers, heat stabilizers,
antistatic agents, anti-slip agents, anti-blocking agents, anti-fogging
agents, lubricants, pigments, dyes, plasticizers, anti-aging agents,
hydrochloric acid absorbers, antioxidants, and nucleating agents. There
are no particular limitations on the amount of these additional resins,
rubbers, inorganic filler, additives, and others added to thermoplastic
resin composition (X2), unless the objects of the second aspect are
impaired. In an exemplary embodiment, the total of
propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2), styrene-based elastomer (C2), if
necessary isotactic polypropylene (A2), if necessary
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (D2), and if necessary softener (E2),
is 60 to 100 wt %, preferably 80 to 100 wt % of the whole composition,
and the remainder is accounted for by the above-described other resins,
rubbers, additives, inorganic filler, and others.

[0401] Thermoplastic resin composition (X2) is produced with a publicly
known kneader as in the case of first aspect of the invention. Preferable
methods are also the same.

[0402] Thermoplastic resin composition (X2) may be crosslinked, if
necessary. The crosslinked product of the present invention can be
produced by dynamic crosslinking with a known crosslinker or crosslinking
auxiliary. Alternatively, post-crosslinking may be applied by heat or
irradiation with electron beam or others to a molded article formed from
thermoplastic resin composition (X2) alone or a mixture prepared by
kneading thermoplastic resin composition (X2), a crosslinker, a
crosslinking auxiliary, and others.

[0403] Particularly in dynamic crosslinking, since
propylene/α-olefin copolymer (B2) has a low melting point and can
be molded at low temperatures, there is an advantage that thermoplastic
resin composition (X2) can be dynamically crosslinked under wide range of
conditions.

[0404] Thermoplastic resin composition (X2) and crosslinked product
thereof can be used for molded articles, for example, sheets, unoriented
or oriented films, filaments, and others with various shapes. The molded
article made of thermoplastic resin composition (X2) or crosslinked
product thereof may be an article in which whole body is made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X2) or crosslinked product thereof, or
in which at least one portion is composed of thermoplastic resin
composition (X2) or a crosslinked product thereof. For example, the
molded article may be, like a laminated film, a composite with another
thermoplastic resin composition having different resin components or a
composite with another material, in which the composite has a portion
made of thermoplastic resin composition (X2) or crosslinked product
thereof.

[0405] The above molded articles specifically include molded articles
obtained with a known method as used in the first aspect of the
invention. Hereinafter, the molded articles are described with reference
to several examples.

[0406] For example, for extrusion-molded articles, there is no particular
limitation on the shapes and application products of the molded article.
They include, for example, those as described in the first aspect of the
invention. Preferred examples are also the same. For example, there may
be mentioned, sheets, (unoriented) films, pipes, hoses, electrical wire
covers, tubes, and others. Especially, sheets (for example, skin
material, etc.), films, tubes, catheters, monofilaments, and nonwoven
fabrics are preferable.

[0407] The method for molding thermoplastic resin compositions (X2) or
crosslinked products thereof by extrusion is the same as the first aspect
of the invention.

[0408] Oriented films can be obtained similarly to the case of in the
first aspect of the invention.

[0409] The draw ratio in drawing sheets or unoriented films and the
thickness of resulting oriented films are the same as those in the first
aspect of the invention.

[0410] As the film-shaped molded article, an inflation film can be
produced. On inflation molding, drawdown is not likely to develop.

[0412] The filament-shaped molded article is obtained in a way similar to
that in the first aspect of the invention, and may be oriented in a way
similar to that in the first aspect of the invention. The filament made
of thermoplastic resin composition (X2) or crosslinked product thereof is
excellent in transparency, flexibility, strength, heat resistance, impact
resistance, and stretching property.

[0413] The nonwoven fabric is produced, specifically, by the spunbond
method or the melt-blown method. The resulting nonwoven fabric is
excellent in flexibility, mechanical strength, heat resistance, impact
resistance, and stretching property.

[0414] The injection-molded article can be produced in a similar way to
that in the first aspect of the invention. The injection-molded article
made of thermoplastic resin composition (X2) or crosslinked product
thereof is excellent in flexibility, transparency, strength, heat
resistance, impact resistance, surface gloss, chemical resistance,
abrasion resistance, and the like. It can be widely used for automobile
interior trims, automobile exterior materials, housings for home electric
appliances, containers, and others.

[0415] The blow-molded article can be produced in a similar way to that in
the first aspect of the invention. The blow-molded article made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X2) or crosslinked product thereof may
be a multilayer molded article containing at least one layer made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X2).

[0416] Extrusion blow molding and injection blow molding are conducted
similarly to those in the first aspect of the invention. The blow-molded
article made of thermoplastic resin composition (X2) or crosslinked
product thereof is excellent in transparency, flexibility, heat
resistance, impact resistance, and moisture resistance as well.

[0417] The press-molded articles include articles similar to the first
aspect of the invention. Specific examples of stamping-molded articles
also include articles similar to the first aspect of the invention.

[0419] The molded article made of thermoplastic resin composition (X2) or
crosslinked product thereof is excellent in mechanical strength such as
hardness, excellent in rubber elasticity and permanent compression set at
high temperatures as well as normal temperature, and also excellent in
transparency and scratch resistance. In addition, when softener (E2) is
contained, the article is excellent in balance of the shape retention and
the rubber elasticity and permanent compression set, especially at high
temperatures. Furthermore, the article is easily recycled and obtained in
a cost-effective manner. Therefore, thermoplastic resin composition (X2)
or crosslinked product thereof is suitable for use in automobile interior
components, automobile exterior components, home electric appliance
components, construction or building components, wrapping sheets, cap
liners, gaskets, and convenience goods; particularly, it is suitable for
use in automobile interior and exterior components, for which rubber
elasticity is required even at high temperatures.

[0420] Specific examples of automobile interior components automobile
exterior components, home electric appliance components, construction and
building components, wrapping sheets, cap liners, and convenience goods
made of thermoplastic resin composition (X2) or crosslinked material
thereof include the same examples as described in the first aspect of the
invention. As the method for producing the cap liners, there may be
mentioned a method of punching out a sheet prepared from thermoplastic
resin composition of the second aspect of the invention.

[0421] The method for producing caps with the cap liners and applications
of the cap liners and the caps with the cap liners are the same as the
first aspect of the invention.

[0422] The molded article made of crosslinked material of thermoplastic
resin composition (X2) may be produced by molding crosslinked material of
thermoplastic resin composition (X2). Alternatively the article can also
be produced by applying post-crosslinking with heating or irradiating
electron beam or others to a molded article formed from thermoplastic
resin composition (X2) alone or a mixture prepared by kneading
thermoplastic resin composition (X2), a crosslinker or crosslinking
auxiliary, and others.

3. Third Aspect

[0423] Hereinafter, the third aspect of the present invention is explained
in detail.

<Propylene-Based Polymer (A3)>

[0424] Propylene-based polymer (A3) used in the third aspect of the
invention contains 90 mol % or more of propylene units, is insoluble in
n-decane at 23° C., and has an intrinsic viscosity [η] of 0.01
to 10 dl/g as measured in decalin at 135° C. or a melt flow rate
(MFR) of 0.01 to 50 g/10 min as measured at 230° C. under a load
of 2.16 kg in accordance with ASTM D1238.

[0425] Propylene-based polymers (A3) include homopolypropylene and
copolymers of propylene and at least one C2-C20 α-olefin
except propylene. Specific examples of the C2-C20
α-olefins except propylene include the C2-C20
α-olefins used for isotactic polypropylene (A1) of the first aspect
of the invention. Also, the preferable range is the same.

[0428] If necessary, a plurality of propylene-based polymers (A3) may be
used together. For example, two or more polymers different in melting
point or rigidity may be used.

[0429] Propylene-based polymer (A3) is insoluble in n-decane at 23°
C. Such property can be examined as follows.

[0430] Five grams of a sample are completely dissolved in 300 mL of
n-decane at 145° C. and kept for 1 hr; the resultant solution is
left at room temperature (23° C.) for 1 hr and stirred with a
rotator for additional 1 hr; the solution is filtered through a 325-mesh
screen; to the filtrate is added acetone about three times by volume of
the filtrate to precipitate a polymer component dissolved in the
solution; the mixture is through a 325-mesh screen to collect the polymer
component, which is regarded as then-decane-soluble component.

[0431] In the third aspect of the invention, the component that is not
soluble in n-decane is regarded as the n-decane-insoluble component. This
n-decane-insoluble component corresponds to polypropylene-based polymer
(A3). The n-decane-soluble component corresponds to, for example, part or
all of other components or soft component (C3) described below, which may
be optionally added.

[0432] For preparing composition (X3) of the third aspect of the
invention, there may be used a polypropylene such as random PP and block
PP, which contains both n-decane-insoluble propylene-based polymer (A3)
and the n-decane-soluble component. The above random PP and block PP may
contain the n-decane-soluble component in an amount of generally 30 wt %
or less. In this case, in analyzing decay of magnetization, the intensity
of magnetization for PP multiplied by the content of the
n-decane-insoluble component in PP is regarded as the intensity of
magnetization for component (A3). Note that, fB is calculated based
on the content of component (B3) and the content of component (A3) in PP,
that is, the content of the n-decane-insoluble component contained in PP.

[0433] It is desirable that propylene-based polymer (A3) has an intrinsic
viscosity [q] of 0.01 to 10 dl/g, and preferably 1.2 to 5.0 dl/g as
measured in decalin at 135° C., or a melt flow rate (MFR) of 0.01
to 50 g/10 min, and preferably 0.3 to 30 g/10 min as measured at
230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg in accordance with ASTM D1238.

[0434] The melting point of propylene-based polymer (A3) measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter is generally 100° C. or higher,
preferably 110 to 170° C., and more preferably 110 to 150°
C.

[0435] Propylene-based polymer (A3) may be isotactic or syndiotactic, but
the isotactic structure is preferred considering heat resistance and
others.

[0436] To obtain polypropylene-based polymer composition (X3) containing
propylene-based polymer (A3) insoluble in decane at 23° C.,
homopolypropylene excellent in heat resistance or homopolypropylene
containing the propylene-based polymer (A3) insoluble in decane at
23° C. may be also used. A block polypropylene (known block
polypropylene, having generally 3 to 30 wt % of n-decane-soluble rubber
components) with well-balanced heat resistance and flexibility as long as
it contains propylene-based polymer (A3) insoluble in decane at
23° C. may be also used. Propylene/α-olefin random copolymer
(except soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3)) with
well-balanced flexibility and transparency as long as it contains
propylene-based polymer (A3) insoluble in decane at 23° C. may be
used.

[0437] There is no particular limitation on the polypropylene containing
propylene-based polymer (A3), but it is desirable that the content of the
components insoluble in decane at 23° C. is generally 70 wt % or
more, preferably 80 wt % or more, and more preferably 87 wt % or more.

[0438] There is no particular limitation on the polypropylene containing
propylene-based polymer (A3), but it is desirable and the melting peak
observed with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) is generally
100° C. or higher, and preferably 110 to 150° C.

[0439] The polypropylene containing propylene-based polymer (A3) can be
produced in a similar way to that in producing isotactic polypropylene
(A1) used in the first aspect of the invention.

<Soft Propylene/α-Olefin Random Copolymer (B3)>

[0440] Soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) used in the
third aspect of the invention satisfies all of requirements (b3-1) to
(b3-5) below.

[0441] (b3-1) The intrinsic viscosity [η] measured in decalin at
135° C. is 0.01 to 10 dl/g, and preferably 0.05 to 10 dl/g.

[0442] (b3-2) The melting point is lower than 100° C., and
preferably not higher than 60° C. or not observed when measured
with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), wherein "melting point is
not observed" means that any melting endothermic peak of crystal with a
melting endothermic entalpy of crystal of 1 J/g or more is not observed
in the temperature range of -150 to 200° C. The measurement
conditions are as described in Examples of the third aspect of the
invention.

[0443] (b3-3) The content of propylene-derived structural units is 60 to
75 mol %, and preferably 56 to 73 mol %; the content of ethylene-derived
structural units is 10 to 14.5 mol %, and preferably 12 to 14 mol %; and
the content of C4-C20 α-olefin-derived structural units
is 10.5 to 30 mol %, and preferably 15 to 25 mol %. As the
α-olefin, 1-butene is particularly preferable.

[0444] (b3-4) Triad tacticity (mm-fraction) determined by 13C-NMR is
85% to 97.5%, preferably 87% to 97%, and more preferably 90% to 97%. With
the above range of mm-fraction, the flexibility and mechanical strength
are particularly well-balanced, which is desirable for the third aspect
of the invention. The mm-fraction can be determined in accordance with
the method as described in WO 04/087775 from Page 21 line 7 to Page 26
line 6.

[0445] (b3-5) Molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn, relative to
polystyrene standards, Mw: weight-average molecular weight, Mn:
number-average molecular weight) measured by gel permeation
chromatography (GPC) is 1.0 to 3.0, and preferably 2.5 or less. The
molecular weight distribution within the above range indicates that soft
propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) is composed of polymer
chains with a uniform structure. With soft propylene/α-olefin
random copolymer (B3) composed of polymer chains with a uniform
structure, on heat treatment of molded articles at high temperatures
(100° C. or higher), whitening can be suppressed more effectively
than the case using a soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer with
a wider molecular weight distribution.

[0447] Soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) is preferably
the same as propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) of the first
aspect of the invention in the stress at 100% elongation (M100),
crystallinity, and glass transition temperature Tg. These properties
exhibit the same effects.

[0448] When soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) shows a
melting point (Tm in ° C.) in the endothermic curve obtained with
a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), the melting endothermic
entalpy ΔH is generally 30 J/g or less and also satisfies the same
relation between C3 (propylene) content (mol %) and ΔH (J/g)
as that of propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) used in the
first aspect of the invention.

[0449] The Shore A hardness of soft propylene/α-olefin random
copolymer (B3) is generally 30 to 80, and preferably 35 to 70.

[0450] Soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) desirably has a
melt flow rate (MFR) in the range of 0.01 to 50 g/10 min, and preferably
0.05 to 40 g/10 min, as measured at 230° C. under a load of 2.16
kg in accordance with ASTM D1238.

[0451] When soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) is used,
regardless of the type of propylene-based polymer (A3), resultant
propylene-based polymer composition (X3) exhibits excellent whitening
resistance, transparency, flexibility, heat resistance, and stretching
property, which is suitable for the third aspect of the invention.

[0452] Soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) can be
produced, for example, by the method described in WO 04/87775.

<Propylene-Based Polymer Composition (X3)>

[0453] Propylene-based polymer composition (X3) of the third aspect
comprises propylene-based polymer (A3) in an amount of 10 to 98 wt %,
preferably 20 to 95 wt %, and more preferably 50 to 93 wt %; and soft
propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) in an amount of 2 to 90 wt
%, preferably 5 to 80 wt %, and more preferably 7 to 50 wt % wherein the
total of (A3) and (B3) is 100 wt %.

[0455] M(t)A: the intensity of magnetization in decay process at time
t measured for propylene-based polymer (A3) used in propylene-based
polymer composition (X3),

[0456] M(t)B: the intensity of magnetization in decay process at time
t measured for soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) used
in propylene-based polymer composition (X3),

[0457] M(t)X-1: the intensity of magnetization in decay process at
time t measured for propylene-based polymer composition (X3-1), which is
prepared by melt-kneading soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer
(B3) used in propylene-based polymer composition (X3) and polypropylene
containing propylene-based polymer (A3) used in propylene-based polymer
composition (X3) in the same ratio at that in propylene-based polymer
composition (X3), and fB: the weight ratio of soft
propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) to the total of
propylene-based polymer (A3) and soft propylene/α-olefin random
copolymer (B3) in propylene-based polymer composition (X3);
0.02≦fB≦0.90,

[0458] wherein t (observation time) is 500 to 1000 μs; each of
M(t)A, M(t)B, and M(t)X-1 is normalized into 0 to 1 (the
maximum magnitude is set to be 1).

[0459] Composition (X3-1) is prepared as follows: polypropylene containing
propylene-based polymer (A3) used in propylene-based polymer (X3) and
soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) used in
propylene-based polymer composition (X3) are melt-kneaded so that the
ratio of polymer (A3) and copolymer (B3) is the same as that in
propylene-based polymer composition (X3). The polypropylene containing
propylene-based polymer (A3) may be composed only of propylene-based
polymer (A3) or may contain, as described above, components other than
propylene-based polymer (A3), for example, the component soluble in
decane at 23° C., in an amount of 30 wt % or more of the
polypropylene.

[0460] The above composition is obtained by using a known melt-kneader at
160 to 300° C. Specifically, there may be mentioned a method in
which source materials are loaded in an amount of 70 vol % or more in a
Labo plast-mill (for example, manufactured by Toyo Seiki Seisaku-Sho,
Ltd.) and kneaded at 160 to 250° C. with 30 rpm to 100 rpm for 3
min or more; and the kneaded material is air-cooled to obtain the desired
composition.

[0461] Hereinafter, the conditions for the pulse NMR measurement and the
definition of decay curves are explained.

[0462] In the third aspect of the invention, the decay curve M(t)
represents the behavior of magnetization generally called spin-spin
relaxation. The decay curve, which represents the relation of the
intensity of magnetization "M" versus the observation time "t" (0 to 1000
μs), can be obtained under the following conditions in the pulse NMR
measurement.

[0463] Sample preparation: about 0.5 g of a sample is loaded in a
10-mmφ glass tube

[0470] The decay curve M(t) ranges from 0 to 1, because it is normalized
on the basis of its maximum value.

[0471] Although the reason is unclear why preferred composition (X3) can
be obtained when the above relation is satisfied, the present inventors
consider as follows. M(t) is an index representing the motion of the
polymer molecular chains, and if there were no molecular level
interaction between propylene-based polymer (A3) and soft
propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) in a propylene-based
polymer composition, inequality (3-1) would be approximately reduced to
the following equation:

M(t)A×(1-fB)+M(t)B×fB=M(t)X-1
3-1-2

[0472] If there are molecular level interactions between propylene-based
polymer (A3) and soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) in
the propylene-based polymer composition, the molecular motion of
components (A3) and (B3) will change. In particular, when the molecular
motion of soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) with a
quite low crystallinity is constrained by the interaction, the decay of
the magnetization for the propylene-based polymer composition becomes
fast, and hence, formula (3-1) is satisfied.

[0473] With the propylene polymer composition satisfying the above
relation, molded articles thereof not suffer from separation or break
between propylene-based polymer (A3) and soft propylene/α-olefin
random copolymer (B3) even when deformation or impact is applied to the
article, and therefore it is likely to exhibit excellent whitening
resistance, scratch resistance, heat resistance, and stretching property
while retaining flexibility. In addition, because crystalline
propylene-based polymer (A3) and non-crystalline soft
propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) are mixed well in the
composition, when the molded article of the composition is kept at high
temperatures (annealed), whitening of the molded article caused by the
growth of crystalline component during annealing is likely to be
suppressed.

[0474] In the third aspect of the invention, composition (X3-1) satisfies
preferably formula (3-1-3), and more preferably formula (3-1-4) below:

{M(t)A×(1-fB)+M(t)B×fB}-M(t)X-1>-
0.04 3-1-3,

{M(t)A×(1-fB)+M(t)B×fB}-M(t)X-1>-
0.05 3-1-4,

[0475] wherein, t is 500 to 1000 μs.

[0476] When propylene-based polymer composition (X3) further has the
property specified by formula (3-2) below besides the above properties,
the molded article thereof is well-balanced flexibility and mechanical
strength, and suitable for use in the third aspect of the invention.
Furthermore, composition (X3) satisfies preferably formula (3-2-2), and
more preferably formula (3-2-3) below.

TSX-1≧35fB+TS0 (3-2),

TSX-1≧-30fB+TS0 (3-2-2),

TSX-1≧-25fB+TS0 (3-2-3),

[0477] TSX-1: strength at break of propylene-based polymer
composition (X3-1) obtained by melt-kneading propylene-based polymer (A3)
and propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) at the same weight
ratio as that in propylene-based polymer composition (X3),

[0478] TS0: strength at break of propylene-based polymer (A3) used in
propylene-based polymer composition (X3), and

[0480] Whether these relations are satisfied or not is examined, for
example, by using a 2-mm thick pressed sheet obtained under the following
press-molding conditions at a tensile speed of 200 mm/min in accordance
with JIS K7113-2.

[0486] When propylene-based polymer composition (X3) of the third aspect
of the invention further has a property represented by formula (3-3)
below besides the above properties, the molded article thereof has
excellent whitening resistance and recovery property; thus such
composition is preferred. The composition satisfies preferably formula
(3-3-2), and more preferably formula (3-3-3).

EL(YS)≧EL(YS)0+fB×15 (3-2)

EL(YS)≧EL(YS)0+fB×17 (3-2-2)

EL(YS)≧EL(YS)0+fB×20 (3-2-3)

[0487] EL(YS): elongation where yield stress is attained in the tensile
test (elongation at yield) of propylene-based polymer composition (X3-1)
obtained by melt-kneading propylene-based polymer (A3) and soft
propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) at the same ratio as that
in propylene-based polymer composition (X3)

[0488] EL (YS)0: elongation where yield stress is attained in the
tensile test (elongation at yield) of propylene-based polymer (A3) used
in propylene-based polymer composition (X3).

[0490] Whether these relations are satisfied or not is examined, for
example, by testing a 2-mm thick press-molded sheet obtained under the
following press-mold conditions at a tensile speed of 200 mm/min in
accordance with JIS K7113-2.

[0495] Note that when the propylene-based polymer composition has no yield
point, the composition is regarded as satisfying the property represented
by formula 3-3.

[0496] Propylene-based polymer composition (X3) is produced with a known
kneader as in the first aspect of the invention. Preferable methods are
also the same.

<Ethylene-Based Polymer and Styrene-Based Polymer (C3)>

[0497] Propylene-based polymer composition (X3) of the third aspect of the
invention may further contain at least one polymer (soft component) that
is selected from ethylene-based polymer and styrene-based polymer and has
a Shore A hardness of 95 or less and/or a Shore D hardness of 60 or less.
Shore A hardness and Shore D hardness are measured with a 2-mm thick
press-molded sheet that is prepared at a press temperature of 190°
C., cooled to room temperature, and left at 23° C. for 3 days
before measurement.

[0498] A polymer having a Shore A hardness of 20 or more is more
preferable.

[0501] Styrene-based elastomer (C3-1) may be oil-extended. For example,
styrene-based elastomer (C3-1) can incorporate a publicly known paraffin
oil having a kinematic viscosity at 40° C. of 20 to 800 cSt and
preferably 40 to 600 cSt, a pour point of 0 to -40° C. and
preferably 0 to -30° C., and a flash temperature (COC test) of 200
to 400° C. and preferably 250 to 350° C. Thus,
incorporating the paraffin oil significantly improves flexibility of
molded articles. The amount of the paraffin oil to be added is preferably
10 to 150 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of
styrene-based elastomer (C3-1) before oil-extended. In this case,
combination of styrene-based elastomer (C3-1) before oil-extended and the
oil is regarded as one styrene-based elastomer. The oil may be separately
added to propylene-based polymer composition (X3). In this case, the oil
is also regarded as one of the components of polymer (C3).

[0502] Ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (C3-2) refers to a
copolymer obtained by copolymerizing ethylene with an α-olefin
having 3 to 20 carbon atoms, preferably 3 to 10 carbon atoms, and the
copolymer with the following properties is preferably used:

[0503] (a) the density at 23° C. in accordance with ASTM 1505 is in
the range of 0.850 to 0.910 g/cm3, preferably 0.860 to 0.905
g/cm3, and more preferably 0.865 to 0.895 g/cm3; and

[0504] (b) the MFR at 190° C. under a load of 2.16 kg is in the
range of 0.1 to 150 g/10 min and preferably 0.3 to 100 g/10 min.

[0505] The crystallinity of ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer
determined by X-ray diffractometry is 40% or less, preferably 0 to 39%,
and more preferably 0 to 35%.

[0506] Specific examples of the C3-C20 α-olefin used as
the co-monomer include propylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene,
4-methylpent-1-ene, 1-octene, 1-decene, and 1-dodecene. These co-monomers
may be used alone or in combination. Among them, propylene, 1-butene,
1-hexene, and 1-octene are preferable. If necessary, a small amount of
another co-monomer, for example, a diene such as 1,6-hexadiene and
1,8-octadiene, a cycloolefin such as cyclopentene, or others may be used.
The α-olefin content in the copolymer is generally 3 to 50 mol %,
preferably 5 to 30 mol %, and more preferably 5 to 25 mol %.

[0507] The molecular structure of the copolymer may be linear or branched
with long or short side-chains. Further, a plurality of different
ethylene/α-olefin random copolymers may be used as a mixture.

[0508] The methods for producing ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer
(C3-2) are not particularly limited, but include a known method using a
vanadium catalyst, a titanium catalyst, a metallocene catalyst, or the
like. In particular, the copolymer produced using a metallocene catalyst
has a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of generally 3 or lower, and
is suitable for use in the third aspect of the invention.

[0509] Ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (C3-2) may be
oil-extended. For example, known paraffin oil as described above can be
incorporated into ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (C3-2), and
addition of paraffin oil significantly improves the flexibility of molded
articles. The amount of paraffin oil to be added is preferably 10 to 150
parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of
ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (C3-2) before oil-extended. In
this case, the combination of ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer
(C3-2) before oil-extended and the oil is regarded as one
ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (C3-2). Oil may be separately
added to propylene-based polymer composition (X3). In this case, the oil
is also regarded as one of the components of polymer (C3).

[0510] When one or more polymers (C3) selected from ethylene-based
polymers and styrene-based polymers are used, the amount thereof is not
particularly limited; the total of one or more polymers (C3) selected
from ethylene-based polymers and styrene-based polymers is generally 1 to
40 parts by weight, preferably 5 to 30 parts by weight, and more
preferably 5 to 20 parts by weight, relative to 100 parts by weight of
the total of propylene-based polymer (A3) and propylene/α-olefin
copolymer (B3). Addition of such polymer (C3) is preferred, because the
composition provides molded articles with improved impact resistance.

[0511] Propylene-based polymer composition (X3) may contain other resins
besides (A3), (B3), and (C3), other rubbers besides (A3), (B3), and (C3),
known adhesion improvers, or the additives as described in the first
aspect of the invention, unless the objects of the third aspect of the
invention are impaired. The amount of these components is not limited
within such range that the objects of the third aspect of the invention
are not impaired. In one embodiment, the amount is 40 parts by weight or
less and preferably 20 parts by weight or less, relative to 100 parts by
weight of the total of propylene-based polymer (A3), soft
propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3), and, if any, one or more
polymer (C3) selected from ethylene-based polymers and styrene-based
polymers.

[0512] Particularly, in applications where a known pigment is added for
coloring, propylene-based polymer composition (X3) of the third aspect of
the invention is suitable, because it provides molded articles with
excellent whitening resistance.

[0513] The molded article of the third aspect of the invention is produced
from propylene-based polymer composition (X3) using a known molding
method such as blow molding, injection molding, extrusion molding, and
inflation molding. Specific examples of the molded articles related to
the third aspect include blow-molded articles, injection-molded articles,
extrusion-molded articles including films and sheets, inflation-molded
articles, tubes, and others. More particularly, they include containers
such as infusion solution bottles, food cups, food bottles, sanitary
bottles such as shampoo bottles, cosmetics bottles, and tubes; sheets or
films such as food packaging films, electronic component-packaging films,
and other packaging sheet or films; caps, home electric appliance
housings, automobile components, convenience goods, stationery, and
others.

[0514] Among them preferred are blow-molded or injection-molded
containers, injection-molded articles, extrusion-molded sheets, films or
tubes, and inflation-molded sheets or films.

[0515] Another preferred example of the molded article related to the
third aspect is a wrap film for foods (food packaging material in a form
of wrap film).

[0516] The wrap film for foods is a single-layer or multilayer film having
at least one layer of the molded article of the third aspect of the
invention.

[0517] Multilayer configuration may be adopted to attain properties other
than the effects of the third aspect of the invention, such as cutting
property and stickiness. The resin components to form a layer other than
the layer formed from propylene-based polymer composition (X3) include
polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene,
linear low-density polyethylene, ultra-low-density polyethylene, nylon,
poly(4-methyl-1-pentene), ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, and others.
Preferred are ethylene-based copolymers containing 70 mol %, or more of
ethylene units.

[0518] The thickness of the wrap film for foods related to the third
aspect is not particularly limited to, but generally 5 to 50 μm and
preferably 8 to 30 μm in view of film strength, flexibility, and
transparency.

[0519] The film related to the third aspect is produced using a
single-layer or multilayer T-die molding machine or an inflation molding
machine conventionally used for molding polyolefin films.

[0520] In order to adjust stickiness and anti-clouding property, the food
wrap film of the third aspect may contain a known tackifier or
surfactant. The tackifiers include liquid hydrocarbons such as polybutene
and an olefin oligomer, liquid paraffin, aliphatic petroleum resins,
alicyclic petroleum resins, and the like. The surfactants include
glycerin fatty acid monoesters, glycerin fatty acid esters, sorbitan
fatty acid esters, and the like. These may be used alone or as a mixture
of two or more.

[0521] In the food wrap film of the third aspect, when at least the layer
made of propylene-based polymer composition (X3) is uniaxially or
biaxially oriented, the film has excellent nerve and has no yield point
while retaining the above properties. The lack of yield point indicates
that the film retains sufficient stress and tension, for example, when it
is stretched to cover a container or the like, and hence the film is
suitable for wrapping. The draw ratio is not particularly limited; for
example, in uniaxial orientation, the desired draw ratio is 1.2 to 5.0
and preferably 1.5 to 3.5. In biaxial orientation, it is desired that the
longitudinal draw ratio is 1.2 to 5.0 and preferably 1.5 to 3.5 and the
transverse one is 1.2 to 5.0 and preferably 1.5 to 3.5.

[0523] Another preferred example of the molded article related to the
third aspect is a cap liner, which has at least one layer made of
propylene-based polymer composition (X3).

4. Fourth Aspect

[0524] Hereinafter, the fourth aspect of the present invention is
explained in detail.

<Isotactic Polypropylene (A4)>

[0525] Isotactic polypropylenes (A4) used in the fourth aspect include
homopolypropylene and copolymers of propylene and at least one
C2-C20 α-olefin except propylene. Specific examples of
the C2-C20 α-olefins except propylene include the same as
those for isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first aspect. Also,
the preferable range is the same.

[0526] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0527] Structural units derived from such α-olefin may be contained
in a ratio of 10 mol % or less, preferably 7 mol or less, in all monomers
including propylene.

[0528] Isotactic polypropylene (A4) preferably has the same properties as
those of isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first aspect concerning
isotactic pentad fraction (mmmm) and melt flow rate (MFR).

[0529] There may be used, if necessary, a plurality of isotactic
polypropylenes (A4) together, for example, two or more components
different in melting point or rigidity.

[0530] To attain desired properties, there may be used, as isotactic
polypropylene (A4), one or more polypropylenes selected from
homopolypropylene with excellent heat resistance (publicly known,
generally containing 3 mol % or less of comonomer except propylene),
block polypropylene with excellent balance of heat resistance and
flexibility (publicly known, generally containing 3 to 30 wt % of
n-decane-soluble rubber components), and random polypropylene with
excellent balance of flexibility and transparency (publicly known,
generally having a melting peak of 100° C. or higher and
preferably in the range of 115° C. to 160° C. as measured
with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC)).

[0531] Such isotactic polypropylene (A4) can be produced similarly to
isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first aspect.

<Propylene/Ethylene/α-Olefin Copolymer (B4)>

[0532] Propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4) used in the fourth
aspect of the invention is a copolymer with at least one C2-C20
α-olefin except propylene and its melting point is lower than
100° C. and preferably not observed when measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter DSC. Here, the expression "melting
point is not observed" means that any melting endothermic peak of crystal
having a melting endothermic entalpy of crystal of 1 J/g or more is not
observed in the temperature range of -150 to 200° C. The
measurement conditions are as described in Examples of the fourth aspect
of the invention.

[0535] When the contents of structural units derived from propylene,
ethylene, and a C4-C20 α-olefin are in the preferable
ranges, propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4) attains more
excellent balance of heat resistance and scratch resistance. More
specifically, the copolymer with a more satisfactory ethylene content
provides oriented films with excellent transparency and impact
resistance; and the copolymer with a more satisfactory α-olefin
content provides oriented films with excellent flexibility as well as
transparency and impact resistance. Therefore, such copolymer can be
suitably used in the fourth aspect.

[0536] Among the C4-C20 α-olefins, 1-butene is especially
preferable in the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0537] Propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4) preferably has the
same properties as propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) used
in the first aspect of the invention concerning intrinsic viscosity
[η], crystallinity, glass transition temperature Tg, molecular weight
distribution (Mw/Mn), and triad tacticity (mm-fraction). Effects of these
properties are also similar.

[0538] For instance, propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4) has
the molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn, relative to polystyrene
standards, Mw: weight-average molecular weight, Mn: number-average
molecular weight) of 4.0 or less, preferably 3.0 or less, and more
preferably 2.5 or less as measured with GPC.

[0539] The triad tacticity (mm-fraction) of the
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4) measured by 13C-NMR
is preferably 85% or more, more preferably 85% to 97.5%, still more
preferably 87% to 97%, and particularly preferably 90% to 97%. With the
above range of triad tacticity, the balance of flexibility and mechanical
strength is particularly excellent, which is suitable for the fourth
aspect of the invention. The mm-fraction can be determined by the method
described in WO 04/087775 from Page 21 line 7 to Page 26 line 6.

[0540] When propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4) has a melting
point (Tm in ° C.) in the endothermic curve measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), the melting endothermic entalpy
ΔH is generally 30 J/g or less, and the same relation between the
C3 content (mold) and melting endothermic entalpy ΔH (J/g) is
satisfied as with propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) used
in the first aspect of the invention.

[0541] In the fourth aspect of the invention, the
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4) exhibiting no melting
point is more preferred.

[0543] The film of the fourth aspect of the invention is a single-layer or
multilayer film having at least one layer made of resin composition (X4)
containing (A4) and (B4), wherein the layer of the resin composition is
at least uniaxially or biaxially oriented. Resin composition (X4) used in
the fourth aspect contains (A4) and (B4) below:

[0544] isotactic polypropylene (A4) in an amount of 10 to 97 wt %,
preferably 50 to 95 wt %, and more preferably 55 to 95 wt %; and

[0546] If the contents of (A4) and (B4) were out of the above ranges, it
would be difficult to form into an oriented film, and the film would have
stretching property and significantly lowered nerve.

[0547] In order to improve the heat shrink ratio of the film related to
the fourth aspect, there may be added hydrocarbon resin (C4) having a
softening point of 50° C. to 160° C. as measured with the
ring-and-ball method in accordance with ASTM-D36 and a number-average
molecular weight of 300 to 1400 as measured with GPC. Specific examples
of hydrocarbon resins (C4) include publicly known petroleum resin
(aliphatic hydrocarbon resin, aromatic hydrocarbon resin, alicyclic
hydrocarbon resin, hydrogenated derivatives thereof, etc.), rosin, rosin
ester, terpene resin, and hydrogenated derivatives thereof.

[0548] The amount of hydrocarbon resin (C4) added is preferably 3 to 70
parts by weight, and more preferably 5 to 50 parts by weight, relative to
100 parts by weight of resin composition (X4) composed of (A4) and (B4).
With the amount in this range, the impact resistance of film is rarely
lowered.

[0549] In order to further improve the impact resistance of the film
related to the fourth aspect, there may be added publicly known
ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer. This ethylene/α-olefin
random copolymer preferably has the same properties as those of
ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (D1) used in the first aspect
concerning density and MFR.

[0550] There is no particular limitation on the method for producing such
ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer. The copolymer can be produced
by copolymerizing ethylene and the α-olefin with a radical
polymerization catalyst, a Philips catalyst, a Ziegler-Natta catalyst, or
a metallocene catalyst.

[0551] In particular, the copolymer produced with a metallocene catalyst
has a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of generally 3 or less and is
suitably used for the fourth aspect.

[0552] The amount of ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer added is
preferably 1 to 30 parts by weight and more preferably 3 to 20 parts by
weight, relative to 100 parts by weight of resin composition (X4)
composed of (A4) and (B4). In the case of putting a high priority in film
transparency, 20 parts by weight or less is preferable.

[0553] To resin composition (X4) there may also be added other resins,
other rubbers, inorganic filler, and the like, and also additives as with
the first aspect, as long as the objectives of the fourth aspect are not
impaired. For thermoplastic resin composition (X4), the amounts of such
other resins, other rubbers, inorganic filler, additives, and others are
not particularly limited as long as the objectives of the fourth aspect
are not impaired. In one embodiment, the total of isotactic polypropylene
(A4), propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4), if any
hydrocarbon resin (C4), and if any, the ethylene/α-olefin random
copolymer is 60 to 100 wt %, and preferably 80 to 100 wt % of the whole
composition.

<Films>

[0554] The film of the fourth aspect has at least one layer made of resin
composition (X4) containing isotactic polypropylene (A4),
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4), and optionally
hydrocarbon resin (C4), wherein the layer made of resin composition (X4)
is at least uniaxially or biaxially oriented. The above layer can be
produced by common molding and orientation methods for polyolefin resin
films. For example, there may be employed a method in which a film molded
by publicly known methods such as inflation molding and T-die molding is
uniaxially or biaxially oriented with a heating roll/tenter at 40°
C. to 180° C. and preferably 60° C. to 160° C.
Simultaneous biaxial orientation with tubular molding technique may also
be employed.

[0555] The draw ratio is not particularly limited to, but generally 1.5 or
more, preferably 2 to 10, and more preferably 3 to 8. Exemplary
embodiments include a uniaxially oriented film in which the draw ratio is
generally 1.5 or more, preferably 2 to 10, more preferably 3 to 8; and a
biaxially oriented film in which the longitudinal draw ratio is generally
1.5 or more, preferably 2 to 10, and more preferably 3 to 8 and the
transverse draw ratio is generally 1.5 or more, preferably 2 to 10, and
more preferably 3 to 8. The thickness of the oriented film thus obtained
is generally 10 to 400 μm. In the fourth aspect, this oriented film
can be used as a layer made of resin composition (X4).

[0556] The films of the fourth aspect with the multilayer structure
include an embodiment in which (an)other film(s) is/are laminated on one
side or both sides of the above film. The films to be laminated are not
particularly limited to, but include films made of polyolefin such as
polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutene, polycycloolefin resin,
ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene/acrylic acid copolymer, and
ethylene/methyl methacrylate copolymer; styrene-based resin film; films
made of polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate and polybutylene
terephthalate; films made of polyamide such as nylon-6 and nylon-6,6;
ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer film; and others. As a laminate of
adhesive polyolefin and gas-barrier resin, there may be mentioned, for
example, a laminate of maleic anhydride-modified polyethylene and
ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer. Such another film is preferably a
uniaxially or biaxially oriented film, but it is not limited thereto.

[0557] Said (an)other film(s) in the multilayer film may be produced, for
example, by laminating another film described above with an unoriented
film made of resin composition (X4) and subsequently orientating the
laminate or by bonding another film to a single-layer oriented film
related to the fourth aspect that is formed in advance.

[0558] The film of the fourth aspect can be also prepared by producing a
single-layer or multilayer film (unoriented film) having at least one
layer made of resin composition (X4) containing (A4), (B4), and
optionally hydrocarbon resin (C4) below, followed by orientating with the
above orientation process:

[0559] 10 to 97 wt % of isotactic polypropylene (A4);

[0560] 3 to 90 wt % of propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B4)
that contains 40 to 85 mol % of propylene-derived structural units, 5 to
30 mol % of ethylene-derived structural units, and 5 to 30 mol % of
C4-C20 α-olefin-derived structural units (a4), the
melting point of (B4) being lower than 100° C. or not observed
when measured with a differential scanning calorimeter, wherein the total
of (A4) and (B4) is 100 wt %.

<Use>

[0561] The films of the fourth aspect are preferably used for, for
example, heat-shrinkable package materials, heat-shrinkable labels, and
the like.

5. Fifth Aspect

[0562] Hereinafter, the fifth aspect of the present invention is explained
in detail.

<Isotactic Polypropylene (A5)>

[0563] Isotactic polypropylenes (A5) used in the fifth aspect include
homopolypropylene and copolymers of propylene and at least one
C2-C20 α-olefin except propylene. Specific examples of
the C2-C20 α-olefins except propylene include the same as
those for isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first aspect. Also,
the preferable range is the same.

[0564] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0565] The structural units derived from these α-olefins may be
contained in an amount of 35 mol % or less and preferably 30 mol % or
less of the whole structural units composing isotactic polypropylene
(A5).

[0566] The melting point of isotactic polypropylene (A5) measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) is 120° C. or higher,
preferably 120 to 170° C., and more preferably 130 to 160°
C.

[0567] There may be used, if necessary, a plurality of isotactic
polypropylenes (A5) together, for example, two or more components
different in melting point or rigidity.

[0568] Isotactic polypropylene (A5) preferably has the same properties as
isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first aspect concerning
isotactic pentad fraction (mmmm) and melt flow rate (MFR).

[0569] Such isotactic polypropylene (A5) can be produced similarly to
isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first aspect.

<Propylene-Based Polymer (B5)>

[0570] Propylene-based polymers (B5) used in the fifth aspect include
homopolypropylene and copolymers of propylene and at least one
C2-C20 α-olefin except propylene. Specific examples of
the C2-C20 α-olefins except propylene include the same as
those for isotactic polypropylene (A5). Also, the preferable range is the
same.

[0571] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0572] In propylene polymer (B5), the content of propylene-derived
structural units is generally 40 to 100 mol %, preferably 40 to 99 mol %,
more preferably 40 to 92 mol %, and still more preferably 50 to 90 mol %;
and the content of structural units derived from the C2-C20
α-olefin (except propylene), which is used as a co-monomer, is
generally 0 to 60 mol %, preferably 1 to 60 mol %, more preferably 8 to
60 mol %, and still more preferably 10 to 50 mol %, wherein the total of
propylene units and C2-C20 α-olefin units is 100 mol %.

[0573] Propylene-based polymer (B5) generally has a melt flow rate (MFR)
of 0.1 to 50 g/10 min as measured at 230° C. under a load of 2.16
kg in accordance with ASTM D1238.

[0574] The melting point of propylene polymer (B5) measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) is lower than 120° C. or
not observed, and preferably not higher than 100° C. or not
observed. Here, "melting point is not observed" means that any melting
endothermic peak of crystal having a melting endothermic entalpy of
crystal of 1 J/g or more is not observed in the temperature range of -150
to 200° C. The measurement conditions are as described in Examples
of the fifth aspect.

[0575] The intrinsic viscosity [n] of propylene-based polymer (B5) is
generally 0.01 to 10 dl/g, and preferably 0.05 to 10 dl/g, as measured in
decalin at 135° C.

[0576] The method for producing propylene-based polymer (B5) is not
particularly limited. It can be produced by polymerizing propylene or
copolymerizing propylene and another α-olefin in the presence of a
publicly known catalyst that can stereospecifically yield isotactic or
syndiotactic polyolefin, for example, a catalyst containing a solid
titanium component and an organometallic compound as major components, or
a metallocene catalyst containing a metallocene compound as one of the
catalyst components. Propylene-based polymer (B5) may be produced by
polymerizing propylene or copolymerizing propylene and another
α-olefin using a publicly known catalyst capable of providing an
atactic polyolefin. It is preferred to copolymerize propylene and the
C2-C20 α-olefin (except propylene) in the presence of the
metallocene catalyst, as described below.

[0581] For example, use of propylene/ethylene/α-olefin random
copolymer (B5-1) provides propylene-based polymer composition (X5) with a
greatly improved elongation when the yield stress is attained in tensile
test (YS) (elongation at yield). As a result, the sheet related to the
fifth aspect exhibits greatly improved folding properties including the
whitening resistance on folding and wrinkle resistance.

[0583] Propylene/ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B5-1)
preferably has the same properties as propylene/ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer (B1) of the first aspect concerning intrinsic viscosity [n],
stress at 100% elongation (M100), crystallinity, and glass transition
temperature Tg. The effects of these properties are also the same.

[0584] When propylene/ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B5-1)
exhibits a melting point (Tm in ° C.) in the endothermic curve
obtained with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), the melting
endothermic entalpy zH is generally 30 J/g or less, and the C3
content (mol %) and ΔH (J/g) also satisfy the same relation as that
for propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) used in the first
aspect.

[0586] In the fifth aspect, the triad tacticity (mm-fraction) determined
by 13C-NMR is generally 85% to 97.5%, preferably 87% to 97%, and
more preferably 90% to 97%. With the copolymer having the above range of
mm-fraction, excellent permanent compression set particularly at high
temperature and mechanical strength are attained, which is desirable for
the fifth aspect. The mm-fraction can be determined by the method
described in WO 04/087775 pamphlet from Page 21 line 7 to Page 26 line 6.

[0587] Propylene/ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B5-1) may be
produced with a metallocene catalyst used for producing isotactic
polypropylene (A5) in a similar manner or with another metallocene
catalysts, although the method is not limited thereto.

<Soft Polymer (C5)>

[0588] Soft polymer (C5) optionally used in the fifth aspect is different
from propylene-based polymer (B5) and at least one soft polymer having a
Shore A hardness of 95 or less and/or a Shore D hardness of 60 or less.
Here, Shore A hardness is determined in accordance with JIS K6301, and
Shore D hardness is determined in accordance with ASTM D-2240.

[0589] Soft polymer (C5) is preferably a copolymer in which the content of
ethylene-derived structural units is more than 60 mol %, preferably 61
mol % or more, and more preferably 61 to 99 mol % of the whole structural
units.

[0592] Specific examples of styrene-based elastomer (C5-1) include the
same elastomers as styrene-based elastomer (C3-1) used in the third
aspect, and publicly known such elastomers may be used without
limitation. Styrene-based elastomer (C5-1) may be used alone or in
combination of two or more.

[0593] Publicly known paraffin oils with properties as mentioned in the
third aspect can be incorporated into styrene-based elastomer (C5-1).
Blending such paraffin oil largely improves the flexibility of the
resulting molded articles. The amount of paraffin oil blended is
preferably 10 to 150 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of
styrene-based elastomer (C5-1).

[0594] Ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (C5-2) refers to a
copolymer of ethylene and a C3-C20 α-olefin, preferably a
C3-C10 α-olefin. Preferably it has the same properties as
ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (C3-2) used in the third aspect
concerning density, MFR, and crystallinity.

[0595] Specific examples of the C3-C20 α-olefins used as
the co-monomer include co-monomers like those for ethylene/α-olefin
random copolymer (C3-2), and the preferred range is also the same. These
co-monomers may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0596] The α-olefin content of copolymer (C5-2) is, for example,
generally 3 mol % or more and less than 40 mol %, preferably 3 to 39 mol
%, more preferably 5 to 30 mol %, and still more preferably 5 to 25 mol
%.

[0597] If necessary, there may be used a small amount of (an) other
co-monomer(s), for example, a diene such as 1,6-hexadiene and
1,8-octadiene, a cycloolefin such as cyclopentene, or the like.

[0598] The molecular structure of copolymer (C5-2) may be linear or
branched with long or short side-chains. Furthermore, a plurality of
different ethylene/α-olefin random copolymers may be used as a
mixture.

[0599] The methods for producing such ethylene/α-olefin random
copolymer (C5-2) are not particularly limited to, but include methods
similar to those for producing ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer
used in the third aspect. In particular, the copolymer produced using a
metallocene catalyst has a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of
generally 3 or less, and is suitably used in the fifth aspect.

[0601] Propylene-based resin composition (X5) may further contain soft
polymer (C5) and also may contain, as necessary, inorganic filler,
additives, or others below.

[0602] In propylene-based polymer composition (X5), isotactic
polypropylene (A5) is used in a ratio of 10 to 99 parts by weight,
preferably 15 to 98 parts by weight, and more preferably 60 to 95 parts
by weight, in 100 parts by weight of the total of (A5) and (B5). This
range is preferred because such composition has good moldability and
provides sheets with excellent heat resistance.

[0603] In propylene-based polymer composition (X5), propylene-based
polymer (B5) is used in a ratio of 1 to 90 parts by weight, preferably 2
to 85 parts by weight, and more preferably 5 to 40 parts by weight, in
100 parts by weight of the total of (A5) and (B5). Blending in this range
is preferred, because flexibility, mechanical strength, scratch
resistance, transparency, and heat resistance are improved and excellent
whitening resistance on folding and wrinkle resistance can be attained.

[0604] It is desirable that propylene-based resin composition (X5) contain
soft polymer (C5), which is optionally used, in an amount of generally 1
to 80 parts by weight and preferably 5 to 70 parts by weight relative to
100 parts by weight of the total of (A5) and (B5). The composition
containing such amount of soft polymer (C5) can provide molded articles
with excellent flexibility, surface hardness, and impact resistance, and
in particular, excellent low-temperature impact strength.

[0605] Propylene-based resin composition (X5) may further contain, as
necessary, other resins, other rubbers, inorganic filler, additives, and
others as long as the objectives of the fifth aspect are not impaired.

[0606] The inorganic fillers used in the fifth aspect include, for
example, talc, clay, calcium carbonate, mica, silicates, carbonates, and
glass fibers. Among these, talc and calcium carbonate are preferable, and
talc is particularly preferable. It is desirable that talc has an average
particle diameter of 1 to 5 μm and preferably 1 to 3 μm. The
inorganic fillers may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0608] The amount of other resins, other rubbers, inorganic filler,
additives, and others described above is not particularly limited as long
as the objects of the first aspect are not impaired. In an embodiment,
the total of isotactic polypropylene (A5), propylene-based polymer (B5),
and, if any, soft polymer (C5) is 60 wt % or more and preferably 80 wt %
to 100 wt % of the whole composition, and the remainder is accounted for
by the above described other resins, other rubbers, inorganic filler,
additives, and others.

[0609] Propylene-based polymer composition (X5) can be produced using
individual components in the above ranges of content by various publicly
known methods, for example, multi-step polymerization; a method of mixing
the components with a Henschel mixer, a V-blender, a ribbon blender, a
tumbler blender, or the like; and a method of mixing the components
followed by melt-kneading with a single-screw or twin-screw extruder, a
kneader, a Banbury mixer, or the like and subsequent granulation or
pulverization.

[0610] Propylene-based polymer composition (X5) may also be obtained by
adding a small amount of isotactic polypropylene (A5) to propylene-based
polymer (B5) to prepare pellets in advance, followed by further adding
isotactic polypropylene (A5) to the pellets. In this case, other resins,
other rubbers, inorganic filler, additives, and others as well as soft
polymer (C5) may be added on the pelletization or may be added when
isotactic polypropylene (A5) is further added after the pelletization.

[0611] When propylene-based polymer composition (X5) does not contain the
above styrene-based elastomer, but contains a softener, the amount of
softener to be added is not particularly limited, but in one preferred
embodiment, it is 15 parts by weight or less and preferably 10 parts by
weight relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of isotactic
polypropylene (A5), propylene-based polymer (B5), and if any, soft
polymer (C5). An embodiment containing no softener is also preferred.

<Polyolefin Decorative Sheet>

[0612] The polyolefin decorative sheet of the fifth aspect is used in
publicly known decorative boards wherein said sheet is laminated on the
surface of adherants such as plywood, steel plate, aluminum plate,
particle board, MDF (medium-density fiberboard), inorganic board (gypsum
board, etc.), concrete wall, plastic board, foam, and heat insulator,
with an adhesive or otherwise. The propylen decorative sheets of the
fifth aspect also include building material-protective sheets, for
example, a sheet used as a surface layer of floors, walls, ceilings, and
other parts. Both decorative and protective sheets are used to produce
picture or print designs and to protect surfaces.

[0613] A typical example of the polyolefin decorative sheet related to the
fifth aspect is, for example, a propylen decorative sheet having at least
one component layer made of propylene-based polymer composition (X5) as
shown in FIG. 5-1. The decorative sheet may contain two or more layers
made of propylene-based polymer composition (X5). In this case, these two
or more layers may be composed of the same components or different
components from each other.

[0614] The polyolefin decorative sheet of the fifth aspect may contain,
besides the layer(s) made of propylene-based polymer composition (X5),
publicly known component layers of decorative sheets, such as a print or
picture layer displaying designs, a surface-coating layer, a
luster-adjusting layer, a shielding layer (which prevents the substrate
surface from being seen through the foreground layer and may also serves
as a base material), and an adhesive layer bonding these layers together.

[0615] The configurations of the decorative sheet related to the fifth
aspect is not particularly limited, but include such configurations as
described in the first aspect.

[0616] Namely, the configurations of the decorative sheet related to the
fifth aspect are not particularly limited, but include, for example, an
embodiment wherein the decorative sheet contains a layer [a] made of
propylene-based polymer composition (X5), at least one layer [b] selected
from print layer, picture layer, and shielding layer, and if necessary at
least one layer [c] selected from surface-coating layer and
luster-adjusting layer.

[0617] In another embodiment, the decorative sheet contains a shielding
layer [d], a layer [a] made of propylene-based polymer composition (X5),
at least one layer [b] selected from print layer and picture layer, and
if necessary at least one layer [c] selected from surface-coating layer
and luster-adjusting layer.

[0618] Since the layer made of propylene-based polymer composition (X5) is
excellent in strength at break, scratch resistance, abrasion resistance,
whitening resistance on folding, wrinkle resistance, heat resistance, and
transparency, it is suitably used as a protective layer for a print or
picture layer (that is, the layer made of propylene-based polymer
composition (X5) is used as a surface layer protecting a print or picture
layer, and onto the layer of the polymer composition there may be applied
publicly known treatment such as providing a surface-coating layer or a
luster-adjusting layer as long as the objectives of the fifth aspect are
not impaired). The polyolefin decorative sheets with such configuration
are particularly preferable.

[0619] The layer made of propylene-based polymer composition (X5) is also
suitably used as one layer in combination with a layer made of another
component because of its excellent flexibility and water resistance. In
this case, the layer made of propylene-based polymer composition (X5) can
be bonded without a publicly known adhesive or an adhesive having the
same effect with the publicly known adhesive. Specifically, sufficient
bonding strength can be attained by publicly known hot-melt bondings such
as heat lamination, extrusion lamination, sandwich lamination, and
co-extrusion.

[0620] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 5-2, the layer made of propylene-based
polymer composition (X5) can be suitably used for a polyolefin decorative
sheet in combination with layers made of a polyolefin resin composition
other than propylene-based resin composition (X5), that is, polyolefin
resin composition out of the scope of propylene-based resin composition
(X5) (including publicly known adhesive polyolefin resin layers). Namely,
the polyolefin decorative sheet of the fifth aspect preferably contains
at least one additional component layer made of a polyolefin resin
composition other than propylene-based polymer composition (X5).

[0621] The polyolefin decorative sheet of the fifth aspect is excellent in
wrinkle resistance on folding. In particular, when the layer made of
propylene-based polymer composition (X5) is laminated with the layer made
of a polyolefin resin composition other than propylene-based polymer
composition (X5), the wrinkle resistance is excellent.

[0622] The polyolefin decorative sheet is suitably used, even though the
sheet has been formed by laminating, without any adhesive, the back
surface of the layer made of propylene-based polymer composition (X5) and
the layer made of a polyolefin resin composition other than
propylene-based polymer composition (X5). Here, "lamination without any
adhesive" means direct lamination by hot-melt bonding.

[0623] As the polyolefin resin composition other than propylene-based
polymer composition (X5), any composition other than propylene-based
polymer composition (X5), that is, polyolefin resin composition out of
the scope of propylene-based polymer composition (X5) may be used without
particular limitation. Specifically, the polyolefin resin compositions
include polyethylene, polypropylene, poly-α-olefin,
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer, ethylene/polar vinyl monomer
copolymer, and resin compositions containing two or more of these.

[0625] The thickness of the layer made of propylene-based polymer
composition (X5) is, although not particularly limited to, generally 5 to
2000 μm.

[0626] To the polyolefin decorative sheet of the fifth aspect, there may
be applied publicly known processing such as embossing, engraining, and
wiping.

[0627] For producing the polyolefin decorative sheet of the fifth aspect,
any publicly known method may be employed without particular limitation.

[0628] The applications of the polyolefin decorative sheet are, although
not particularly limited to, preferably the same as those of the first
aspect.

[0629] Namely, the applications of the polyolefin decorative sheet are not
particularly limited, and the sheet is preferably used for home electric
appliances and furniture such as TV cabinets, stereo-speaker boxes, video
cabinets, various storage furniture, and unified furniture; housing
members such as doors, door frames, window sashes, crowns, plinth, and
opening frames; furniture members such as doors of kitchen or storage
furniture; building materials such as flooring material, ceiling
material, and wall paper; automobile interior materials; stationery;
office goods; and others.

6. Sixth Aspect

[0630] Hereinafter, the sixth aspect of the present invention is explained
in detail.

<Propylene-Based Polymer (A6)>

[0631] Propylene-based polymers (A6) used in the sixth aspect include
homopolypropylene and copolymers of propylene and at least one
C2-C20 α-olefin except propylene. The C2-C20
α-olefins except propylene include α-olefins like those for
isotactic polypropylene (A1)) used in the first aspect. Also, the
preferable range is the same.

[0632] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0633] The structural units derived from these α-olefins may be
contained in an amount of 35 mol % or less and preferably 30 mol % or
less of the whole units composing propylene-based polymer (A6).

[0634] The melt flow rate (MFR) of propylene-based polymer (A6) is
generally 0.01 to 1000 g/10 min, preferably 0.05 to 100 g/10 min, and
more preferably 0.1 to 50 g/10 min as measured at 230° C. under a
load of 2.16 kg in accordance with ASTM D1238.

[0635] The melting point of propylene-based polymer (A6) measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) is generally 120° C. or
higher, preferably 120 to 170° C., and more preferably 125 to
165° C.

[0636] Propylene-based polymer (A6) may be either isotactic or
syndiotactic, but preferably isotactic considering heat resistance and
others.

[0637] There may be used, if necessary, two or more kinds of
propylene-based polymers (A6) together, for example, two or more
components different in melting point or rigidity.

[0638] For attaining the desired properties, there may be used, as
propylene-based polymer (A6), one or more polymers selected from
homopolypropylene with excellent heat resistance (publicly known,
generally containing 3 mol % or less of comonomer except propylene),
block polypropylene with excellent balance of heat resistance and impact
resistance (publicly known, generally containing from 3 to 30 wt % of
n-decane-soluble rubber components), and random polypropylene with
excellent balance of flexibility and transparency (publicly known,
generally having a melting peak of 120° C. or higher and
preferably 125° C. to 150° C. as measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter (DSC)).

[0639] Such propylene-based copolymer (A6) can be produced by methods like
those for producing isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first
aspect.

<Propylene-Based Polymer (B6)>

[0640] Propylene-based polymers (B6) used in the six embodiment include
homopolypropylene and copolymers of propylene and at least one
C2-C20 α-olefin except propylene. The C2-C20
α-olefins except propylene include α-olefins like those used
for propylene-based polymer (A6). Also, the preferable range is the same.

[0641] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0642] In propylene-based polymer (B6), the content of propylene-derived
structural units is generally 40 to 100 mold, preferably 40 to 99 mol %,
more preferably 40 to 92 mol %, and still more preferably 50 to 90 mol %;
and the content of structural units derived from a C2-C20
α-olefin (except propylene) used as a co-monomer is generally 0 to
60 mol %, preferably 1 to 60 mold, more preferably 8 to 60 mol %, and
still more preferably 10 to 50 mol %, wherein the total of propylene
units and C2-C20 α-olefin units is 100 mol %.

[0643] Propylene-based polymer (B6) generally has a melt flow rate (MFR,
measured at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg in accordance with
ASTM D1238) of 0.1 to 50 (g/10 min).

[0644] The melting point of propylene-based polymer (B6) is lower than
120° C. or not observed, and preferably 100° C. or lower or
not observed, as measured with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC).
Here, "melting point is not observed" means that any melting endothermic
peak of crystal having a melting endothermic entalpy of crystal of 1 J/g
or more is not observed in the temperature range of -150 to 200°
C. The measurement conditions are as described in Examples of the sixth
aspect.

[0646] Propylene-based polymer (B6) preferably has the same triad
tacticity (mm-fraction) as that of propylene/ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer (B1) of the first aspect, whereby the same effect can be
obtained.

[0647] Namely, the triad tacticity (mm-fraction) of propylene-based
polymer (B6) determined by 13C-NMR is preferably 85% or more, more
preferably 85% to 97.5%, still more preferably 87% to 97%, and
particularly preferably 90% to 97%. With the above range of triad
tacticity (mm-fraction), the balance of flexibility and mechanical
strength is particularly excellent, which is desirable for the sixth
aspect. The mm-fraction can be determined by the method described in WO
04/087775 pamphlet from Page 21 line 7 to Page 26 line 6.

[0648] The methods for producing propylene-based polymer (B6), although
not particularly limited to, include a method similar to that for
producing propylene-based polymer (B5) used in the fifth aspect.

[0655] The melting point Tm of propylene/C4-C20 α-olefin
random copolymer (B6-1) is measured with a DSC as follows: a sample put
in an aluminum pan is heated to 200° C. at 100° C./min,
kept at 200° C. for 5 min, cooled to -150° C. at 10°
C./min, and heated to 200° C. at 10° C./min, wherein the
temperature when an endothermic peak is observed in the second heating
step is counted as the melting point Tm. The melting point Tm is
generally lower than 120° C., preferably lower than 100°
C., more preferably 40 to 95° C., still more preferably 50 to
90° C. With the above range of melting point Tm, the composition
provides molded articles with excellent balance between flexibility and
mechanical strength in particular. Furthermore, because of reduced
surface stickiness, the molded articles of the composition related to the
sixth aspect have an advantage of good processability.

[0657] (c) the crystallinity measured by X-ray diffractometry is
preferably 40% or less, and more preferably 35% or less.

[0658] In propylene/C4-C20 α-olefin random copolymer
(B6-1), the content of C4-C20 α-olefin-derived structural
units is preferably 5 to 50 mol %, and more preferably 10 to 35 mol %.
Particularly, 1-butene is preferably used as the C4-C20
α-olefin.

[0659] Such propylene-based polymer (B6-1) is produced by methods similar
to those for producing soft propylene/α-olefin random copolymer
(B3) used in the third aspect. For example, the method described in WO
04/087775 pamphlet may be employed.

[0662] (n) the content of propylene-derived structural units is 40 to 85
mol %, the content of ethylene-derived structural units is 5 to 30 mol %,
and the content of C4-C20 α-olefin-derived structural
units is 0.5 to 30 mol %, wherein the total of propylene-derived
structural units, ethylene-derived structural units, and C4-C20
α-olefin-derived structural units is 100 mol %; and the total of
ethylene-derived structural units and C4-C20
α-olefin-derived structural units preferably is 60 to 15 mol %.

[0663] It is preferred that propylene/ethylene/C4-C20
α-olefin random copolymer (B6-2) further satisfies at least one or
more, more preferably both, of properties (O) and (p) below:

[0664] (o) the Shore hardness A is 30 to 80, and preferably 35 to 60; and

[0665] (p) the crystallinity measured with X-ray diffractometry is 20% or
less, and preferably 10% or less.

[0666] The melting point, Tm, of propylene/ethylene/C4-C20
α-olefin random copolymer (B6-2) is preferably not higher than
50° C. or not observed, and more preferably not observed, when
measured with a DSC. The melting point can be measured by the same way as
the case of copolymer (B6-1) described above.

[0667] For the contents of propylene and other co-monomer components, more
specifically, the content of propylene-derived structural units is
preferably 60 to 82 mol % and more preferably 61 to 75 mol %, the content
of ethylene-derived structural units is preferably 8 to 15 mol % and more
preferably 10 to 14 mol %, and the content of C4-C20
α-olefin-derived structural units is preferably 10 to 25 mol % and
more preferably 15 to 25 mol %. Particularly, 1-butene is preferably used
as the C4-C20 α-olefin.

[0668] Such propylene/ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B6-2) can
be produced by methods similar to those for producing soft
propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B3) used in the third aspect,
for example, by the method described in WO 04/087775 pamphlet.

[0669] When propylene/ethylene/C4-C20 α-olefin random
copolymer (B6-2) is used in the sixth aspect, molded articles obtained
have more improved flexibility and excellent low-temperature
embrittlement property. For example, when the molded article is an
electrical wire, it has an advantage that its electrical wire cover is
resistant to cracking at low temperature.

<Elastomer (C6)>

[0670] Elastomer (C6) used in the sixth aspect is one or more elastomer
selected from ethylene-based elastomer (C6-1) containing 61 mol % or more
of ethylene-derived structural units in the whole structural units, and
styrene-based elastomer (C6-2) containing 5 to 70 wt % of styrene-derived
structural units in the whole structural units.

[0671] Elastomer (C6) is not particularly limited as long as its Shore A
hardness is in the range of 30 to 90. The elastomers include, for
example, styrene/butadiene rubber and its hydrogenated derivative,
ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer, ethylene/vinyl acetate
copolymer, ethylene/acrylic acid copolymer, ethylene/methyl methacrylate
copolymer, and others.

[0673] Ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (C6-1-1) refers to a
copolymer of ethylene and a C3-C20 α-olefin, preferably a
C3-C10 α-olefin, and preferably has the same properties
as ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer (C3-2) used in the third
aspect concerning density, MFR, and crystallinity.

[0674] Specific examples of the C3-C20 α-olefins used as a
co-monomer include co-monomers like those for ethylene/α-olefin
random copolymer (C3-2) used in the third aspect. The preferable range is
also the same. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0676] There may be contained, if necessary, a small amount of structural
units derived from another co-monomer, for example, a diene such as
1,6-hexadiene and 1,8-octadiene, a cycloolefin such as cyclopentene, or
others.

[0677] The molecular structure of copolymer (C6-1-1) may be linear or
branched with long or short side-chains.

[0678] A plurality of different ethylene/α-olefin random copolymers
(C6-1-1) may be used as a mixture.

[0679] The methods for producing such ethylene/α-olefin random
copolymer (C6-1-1) is not particularly limited to, but include the same
methods as those for producing ethylene/α-olefin random copolymer
(C3-2) used in the third aspect. In particular, the copolymer produced
with a metallocene catalyst has a molecular weight distribution of
generally 3 or less, and is preferably used in the sixth aspect.

[0680] Specific examples of styrene-based elastomer (C6-2) include the
same elastomers as styrene-based elastomer (C3-1) used in the third
aspect, and publicly known elastomers may be used without limitation.
Styrene-based elastomer (C6-2) may be used alone or in combination of two
or more.

[0681] In the sixth aspect, ethylene elastomer (C6-1) and styrene-based
elastomer (C6-2) may be used together.

<Inorganic Filler (D6)>

[0682] As inorganic filler (D6) used in the sixth aspect, there may be
used various substances, for example, metal compounds, inorganic
compounds such as glass, ceramics, talc, and mica, or others. Among them,
metal hydroxides, metal carbonates (carbonated compounds), and metal
oxides are preferably used. Inorganic filler (D6) may be used alone or in
combination of two or more.

[0683] The average particle diameter of inorganic filler (D6) is generally
0.1 to 20 μm, and preferably 0.5 to 15 μm, which is determined with
the laser method.

[0684] Inorganic filler (D6) may be surface-treated with a fatty acid such
as stearic acid and oleic acid, an organosilane, or others. In the
inorganic filler, fine particles with the above average particle diameter
may be agglomerated.

<Oil (E6)>

[0685] Oils (E6) used in the sixth aspect include various oils such as
paraffin oil, naphthene oil, aromatic oil, and silicone oil. Among them,
paraffin oil and naphthene oil are preferably used.

[0686] Oil (E6), although not particularly limited, preferably has a
kinematic viscosity at 40° C. of generally 20 to 800 cSt
(centiStrokes), and preferably 40 to 600 cSt. For oil (E6), it is
desirable that the pour point is generally 0 to -40° C., and
preferably 0 to -30° C., while the flash point (COC test) is
generally 200 to 400° C., and preferably 250 to 350° C.
When oil (E6) is blended, the propylene-based resin composition of the
sixth aspect is particularly excellent in low-temperature properties such
as cold embrittlement resistance and scratch resistance.

[0687] The naphthene process oil suitably used for the sixth aspect is a
petroleum-derived softener containing 30 to 45 wt % of naphthene
hydrocarbons, which is blended in rubber processing for the purpose of
softening, dispersing blended components, lubrication, improving
low-temperature properties, or others. When such process oil is blended,
the resin composition has further improved pour point on molding, and in
molded articles thereof, the flexibility and low-temperature properties
are further improved and the surface stickiness caused by bleeding is
suppressed. In the sixth aspect, a naphthene process oil having an
aromatic hydrocarbon content of 10 wt % or less is preferably used. When
the composition contains such naphthene oil, the surface bleeding is
suppressed in molded articles, although the reason is unclear.

<Graft-Modified Polymer (E6)>

[0688] The starting polymers for graft-modified polymer (E6) include, for
example, polymers of one or more α-olefin, styrene-based block
copolymers, and others. In particular, ethylene-based polymers,
propylene-based polymers, and styrene-based block copolymers are
preferable. The above α-olefins include, for example,
C2-C20 α-olefins.

[0689] The ethylene-based polymer is preferably polyethylene or an
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer. Among ethylene/α-olefin
copolymers described above, ethylene/C3-C10 α-olefins
copolymers are preferable. The C3-C10 α-olefins include,
specifically, propylene, 1-butene., 1-pentene, 1-hexene,
3-methyl-1-butene, 3-methyl-1-pentene, 3-ethyl-1-pentene,
4-methyl-1-pentene, 4-methyl-1-hexene, 4,4-dimethyl-1-pentene,
4-ethyl-1-hexene, 1-octene, 3-ethyl-1-hexene, 1-octene, 1-decene, and
others. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Above
all, at least one selected from propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, and
1-octene is desirably used.

[0690] For the content of each structural units in the ethylene-based
copolymer, it is desirable that the content of ethylene-derived
structural units is 75 to 95 mol %, and the content of structural units
derived from at least one compound selected from C3-C10
α-olefins is 5 to 20 mol %.

[0691] The ethylene/α-olefin copolymer preferably satisfies:

[0692] (i) the density is 0.855 to 0.910 g/cm3, and preferably 0.857
to 0.890 g/cm3;

[0693] (ii) the melt flow rate (MFR, at 190° C. under a load of
2.16 kg) is in the range of 0.1 to 100 g/10 min, and preferably 0.1 to 20
g/10 min;

[0694] (iii) the index of molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) determined
by GPC is 1.5 to 3.5, preferably 1.5 to 3.0, and more preferably. 1.8 to
2.5; and

[0695] (iv) the B-value determined from 13C-NMR spectrum using the
following equation is 0.9 to 1.5, and preferably 1.0 to 1.2.

B-value=[POE]/(2-[PE][PO])

(In the formula, [PE] denotes the mole fraction of ethylene-derived
structural units in the copolymer; [PO] denotes the mole fraction of
α-olefin-derived structural units in the copolymer; and [POE] is
the ratio of the number of ethylene-α-olefin dyads to the total
number of dyads in the copolymer.)

[0696] Besides the above, it is desirable that the ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer has the same properties as those of the ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer used for component (A6). For this copolymer, the co-monomer
species, density, and molecular weight may be identical to or different
from those for component (A6).

[0697] The graft-modified polymer used in the sixth aspect can be obtained
by, for example, graft-modification of a poly-α-olefin, a
styrene-based block copolymer, or the like with a polar group-containing
vinyl compound. The vinyl compounds include vinyl compounds having an
oxygen-containing group such as acid, acid anhydride, ester, alcohol,
epoxy, and ether, vinyl compounds having a nitrogen-containing group such
as isocyanate and amide, and vinyl compounds having a silicon-containing
group such as vinylsilane.

[0698] Among them, the vinyl compound having an oxygen-containing group is
preferable. Specifically, unsaturated epoxy monomers, unsaturated
carboxylic acids, and their derivatives are preferable.

[0702] The unsaturated dicarboxylic acids and their anhydrides are more
preferable among them, particularly maleic acid, nadic acid®, and
their anhydrides are preferably used.

[0703] Such unsaturated carboxylic acid or its derivative may bond to any
carbon atom in the unmodified ethylene-based copolymer without particular
limitation on the position to be grafted.

[0704] Graft-modified polymer (F6) described above is prepared by various
known methods, for example, by the followings:

[0705] (1) To the unmodified polymer melted with an extruder or the like,
the unsaturated carboxylic acid or the like is added to be
graft-copolymerized; or

[0706] (2) To a solution prepared by dissolving the unmodified polymer in
a solvent, the unsaturated carboxylic acid or the like is added to be
graft-copolymerized.

[0707] In either method, it is preferred that the reaction is conducted in
the presence of a radical initiator for efficient graft-copolymerization
of the above grafting monomer such as unsaturated carboxylic acids.

[0710] The azo compounds include azobisisobutyronitrile, dimethyl
azoisobutyrate, and others.

[0711] Specifically, the radical initiators suitably used are dialkyl
peroxides such as dicumyl peroxide, di-tert-butyl peroxide,
2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di(tert-butylperoxy)-3-hexyne,
2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di(tert-butylperoxy)hexane, and
1,4-bis(tert-butylperoxyisopropyl)benzene.

[0712] The amount of radical initiator to be used is generally 0.001 to 1
part by weight, preferably 0.003 to 0.5 parts by weight, and more
preferably 0.05 to 0.3 parts by weight, relative to 100 parts by weight
of the unmodified polymer.

[0713] In the graft-polymerization with or without the above radical
initiator, the reaction temperature is generally 60 to 350° C.,
and preferably 150 to 300° C.

[0716] When propylene/C4-C20 α-olefin random copolymer
(B6-1) is used as propylene-based polymer (B6), it is desirable that
propylene-based resin composition (X6) contains propylene-based polymer
(A6) in an amount of 0 to 80 wt %, preferably 0 to 70 wt %, more
preferably 0 to 60 wt %, still more preferably 0 to 50 wt %, and
particularly preferably 10 to 40 wt %; propylene/C4-C20
α-olefin random copolymer (B6-1) in an amount of 5 to 85 wt %,
preferably 10 to 80 wt %, more preferably 10 to 70 wt %, still more
preferably 15 to 60 wt %, and particularly preferably 25 to 55 wt %;
elastomer (C6) in an amount of 0 to 40 wt. %, preferably 0 to 30 wt %,
more preferably 0 to 25 wt %, still more preferably 5 to 20 wt %, and
particularly preferably 5 to 15 wt %; and inorganic filler (D6) in an
amount of 15 to 80 wt %, preferably 20 to 70 wt %, more preferably 30 to
70 wt %, still more preferably 30 to 60 wt %, and particularly preferably
35 to 60 wt %, wherein the total of components (A6), (B6), (C6), and (D6)
is 100 wt %.

[0717] When propylene/ethylene/C4-C20 α-olefin random
copolymer (B6-2) is used as propylene-based polymer (B6), it is desirable
that propylene-based resin composition (X6) contains propylene-based
polymer (A6) in an amount of 0 to 80 wt %, preferably 0 to 70 wt %, more
preferably 0 to 60 wt %, still more preferably 0 to 50 wt %, and
particularly preferably 10 to 40 wt %; propylene/1-butene random
copolymer as (B6-2) in an amount of 5 to 85 wt %, preferably 10 to 80 wt
%, more preferably 10 to 70 wt %, still more preferably 15 to 50 wt %,
and particularly preferably 20 to 50 wt %; elastomer (C6) in an amount of
0 to 40 wt %, preferably 0 to 30 wt %, more preferably 0 to 25 wt %,
still more preferably 5 to 20 wt %, and particularly preferably 5 to 15
wt %; and inorganic filler (D6) in an amount of 15 to 80 wt %, preferably
20 to 70 wt %, more preferably 30 to 70 wt %, still more preferably 30 to
60 wt %, and particularly preferably 35 to 60 wt %, wherein the total of
components (A6), (B6), (C6), and (D6) is 100 wt %.

[0718] The amount of oil (E6) used in the sixth aspect is 0.1 to 20 parts
by weight, preferably 0.1 to 10 parts by weight, and more preferably 0.1
to 8 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight to the total of
components (A6), (B6), (C6), and (D6). When the composition contains oil
(E6) in the above range, the effect of improving low-temperature
properties is remarkable while the oil is seldom bled in surfaces of
molded articles; hence such composition is preferred.

[0719] When both graft-modified polymer (F6) and
propylene/C4-C20 α-olefin random copolymer (B6-1) are
used, it is desirable that propylene-based resin composition (X6)
contains propylene-based polymer (A6) in an amount of 0 to 80 wt %,
preferably 0 to 70 wt %, more preferably 0 to 60 wt %, still more
preferably 0 to 50 wt %, and particularly preferably 10 to 40 wt %;
propylene/C4-C20 α-olefin random copolymer (B6-1) in an
amount of 5 to 85 wt %, preferably 5 to 80 wt %, more preferably 5 to 65
wt %, still more preferably 5 to 55 wt %, and particularly preferably 5
to 45 wt %; elastomer (C6) in an amount of 0 to 40 wt %, preferably 0 to
30 wt %, more preferably 0 to 25 wt %, still more preferably 0 to 20 wt
%, and particularly preferably 0 to 15 wt %; and inorganic filler (D6) in
an amount of 15 to 80 wt %, preferably 20 to 70 wt %, more preferably 30
to 70 wt %, still more preferably 30 to 60 wt %, and particularly
preferably 35 to 60 wt %, wherein the total of components (A6), (B6),
(C6), and (D6) is 100 wt %. In this case, graft-modified polymer (F6) is
added in an amount of 0.1 to 10 parts by weight, preferably 0.1 to 8
parts by weight, relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of
components (A6), (B6), (C6), and (D6). When the composition contains
graft-modified polymer (F6) in the above range, the effect of improving
scratch resistance is remarkable and the composition has excellent
flowability; hence such composition is preferred.

[0720] When graft-modified polymer (F6) is used and
propylene/ethylene/C4-C20 α-olefin random copolymer
(B6-2) is used as propylene/α-olefin random copolymer (B6), it is
desirable that propylene-based resin composition (X6) contains
propylene-based polymer (A6) in an amount of 0 to 80 wt %, preferably 0
to 70 wt %, more preferably 0 to 60 wt %, still more preferably 0 to 50
wt %, and particularly preferably 10 to 40 wt %;
propylene/ethylene/C4-C20 α-olefin random copolymer
(B6-2) in an amount of 5 to 85 wt %, preferably 5 to 80 wt %, more
preferably 5 to 65 wt %, still more preferably 5 to 50 wt %, and
particularly preferably 5 to 40 wt %; elastomer (C6) in an amount of 0 to
40 wt %, preferably 0 to 30 wt %, more preferably 0 to 25 wt %, still
more preferably 0 to 20 wt %, and particularly preferably 0 to 15 wt %;
and inorganic filler (D6) in an amount of 15 to 80 wt %, preferably 20 to
70 wt %, more preferably 30 to 70 wt %, still more preferably 30 to 60 wt
%, and particularly preferably 35 to 60 wt %, wherein the total of
components (A6), (B6), (C6), and (D6) is 100 wt %. In this case, the
graft-modified polymer (F6) is blended in an amount of generally 0.1 to
30 parts by weight, preferably 0.1 to 10 parts by weight, and more
preferably 0.1 to 8 parts, by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of
the total of components (A6), (B6), (C6), and (D6). When the composition
contains graft-modified polymer (F6) in the above range, the effect of
improving scratch resistance is remarkable and the composition has
excellent flowability; therefore such composition is preferred.

[0721] As long as the objectives of the sixth aspect are not impaired,
propylene-based resin composition (X6) may further contain other resins,
other rubbers, additives such as antioxidants, heat stabilizers,
weathering stabilizers, anti-slip agents, anti-blocking agents,
nucleating agents, pigments, hydrochloric acid absorbers, and inhibitors
against copper-induced damage. Such other resins, other rubbers,
additives, and others described above may be added in any amount without
particular limitation as long as the objectives of the sixth aspect are
not impaired. In a preferred embodiment, for example, the total of (A6),
(B6), (C6), and (D6) is 60 to 100 wt %, and preferably 80 to 100 wt % of
the whole composition (X6), and the remainder is accounted for by the
above described other resins, other rubbers, additives, oil (E6),
graft-modified polymer (F6), and others.

<Method for Producing Propylene-Based Resin Composition (X6)>

[0722] Propylene-based resin composition (X6) of the sixth aspect can be
produced by publicly known methods, for example, by melt-kneading of the
above components.

[0723] When propylene-based resin composition (X6) contains graft-modified
polymer (F6), propylene-based polymer (B6) and graft-modified polymer
(F6) are melt-kneaded to produce propylene-based polymer composition
(G6), which is subsequently melt-kneaded together with inorganic filler
(D6), if necessary propylene-based polymer (A6), and if necessary one or
more elastomers (C6) selected from ethylene-based elastomer (C6-1) and
styrene-based elastomer (C6-2). This process is preferable because
scratch resistance can be further improved while no other properties are
impaired.

[0724] Here, part of (B6) or (F6) may be supplied independently of
propylene-based polymer composition (G6) (melt-kneaded product), similar
to component (A6) and others, without preliminarily melt-kneading.
However, it is the most effective that whole (B6) and (F6) are
preliminarily melt-kneaded to prepare propylene-based polymer composition
(G6) (melt-kneaded product), and then the composition is supplied.

<Propylene-Based Polymer Composition (G'6)>

[0725] Propylene-based polymer composition (G'6) comprises propylene-based
polymer (36) and graft-modified polymer (F6). The content of (B6) is 99
to 14 parts by weight and that of (F6) is 1 to 86 parts by weight,
wherein the total of (B6) and (F6) is 100 parts by weight. Particularly
preferably, the content of (B6) is 99 to 50 parts by weight and that of
(F6) is 1 to 50 parts by weight. When propylene-based polymer composition
(G'6) is used for producing propylene-based resin composition (X6), the
ratio of (B6) to (F6) may be selected according to the ratio of (B6) to
(F6) in said propylene-based resin composition (X6). Propylene-based
polymer composition (G'6) can be produced, for example, by melt-kneading
(B6) and (F6).

<Molded Article>

[0726] The molded article of the sixth aspect is made of propylene-based
resin composition (X6) described above. Molded articles with various
shapes are obtained from propylene-based resin composition (X6) using
conventional publicly-known melt-molding methods. The melt-molding
methods include, for example, extrusion molding, rotation molding,
calendar molding, injection molding, compression molding, transfer
molding, powder molding, blow molding, vacuum molding, and others. The
molded article may be a composite with a molded article made of another
material, for example, laminate.

[0727] The molded articles are suitably used, for example, as coatings for
electrical wire bodies such as electrical wire insulators and wire
sheaths. The coating layers, such as electrical wire insulators and wire
sheaths, are formed around electrical wire bodies using conventional
publicly-known methods, for example, extrusion molding.

[0728] The electrical wire of the sixth aspect has an insulator made of
propylene-based resin composition (X6) and/or a sheath made of
propylene-based resin composition (X6). The electrical wire is, in
particular, preferably an electrical wire for automobiles (automobile
electrical wire) and an electrical wire for apparatuses (insulated wires
for electric apparatus).

[0729] Propylene-based resin composition (X6) is also suitably used for
building materials and others.

7. Seventh Aspect

[0730] Hereinafter, the seventh aspect of the present invention is
explained in detail. Foaming material (X7) related to the seventh aspect
is characterized by containing propylene-based polymer (B7).

<Propylene-Based Polymer (A7)>

[0731] Propylene-based polymers (A7) optionally used in the seventh aspect
include homopolypropylene and copolymers of propylene and at least one
C2-C20 α-olefin except propylene. The C2-C20
α-olefins except propylene include α-olefins like those for
isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first aspect. Also, the
preferable range is the same.

[0732] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0733] Propylene-based polymer (A7) may contain structural units derived
from these α-olefins in an amount of 35 mol %; or less, and
preferably 30 mol % or less. Here, the total of propylene-derived
structural units and structural units derived from α-olefins except
propylene is 100 mol %.

[0734] The desirable melt flow rate (MFR) of propylene-based polymer (A7)
is 0.01 to 1,000 g/10 min, and preferably 0.05 to 100 g/10 min, as
determined at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg in accordance with
ASTM D1238.

[0735] The melting point of propylene-based polymer (A7) measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter is 100° C. or higher, preferably
100 to 160° C., and more preferably 110 to 150° C.

[0736] Propylene-based polymer (A7) may be either isotactic or
syndiotactic, but preferably isotactic, considering heat resistance and
others.

[0737] There may be used, if necessary, two or more propylene-based
polymers (A7) in combination, for example, two or more components
different in melting point or rigidity.

[0738] To attain desired properties, there may be used, as propylene-based
polymer (A7), one or more polymers selected from homopolypropylene with
excellent heat resistance (publicly known, generally copolymerized with 3
mol % or less of comonomers except propylene), block polypropylene with
excellent balance of heat resistance and flexibility (publicly known,
generally containing 3 to 30 wt % of n-decane-soluble rubber components),
and random polypropylene with excellent balance of flexibility and
transparency (publicly known, generally having a melting peak of
100° C. or higher and preferably 110° C. to 150° C.
as measured with a differential scanning calorimeter DSC).

[0739] Such propylene-based polymer (A7) can be produced by methods
similar to those for producing isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the
first aspect.

[0741] Propylene-based polymers (B7) used in the seventh aspect include
homopolypropylene and copolymers of propylene and at least one
C2-C20 α-olefin except propylene. The C2-C20
α-olefins except propylene include the same α-olefins as
those for propylene-based polymer (A7). Also, the preferable range is the
same.

[0742] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0743] In propylene-based polymer (B7), the content of propylene-derived
structural units is generally 40 to 100 mol %, preferably 40 to 99 mol %,
more preferably 40 to 92 mol %, and still more preferably 50 to 90 mol %;
and the content of structural units derived from the C2-C20
α-olefin (except propylene) used as a co-monomer is generally 0 to
60 mol %, preferably 1 to 60 mol %, more preferably 8 to 60 mol %, and
still more preferably 10 to 50 mol %, wherein the total of
propylene-units and C2-C20 α-olefin-units is 100 mol %).

[0744] The melting point of propylene-based polymer (B7) is lower than
120° C. or not observed, and preferably not higher than
100° C. or not observed, as measured with a differential scanning
calorimeter (DSC). Here, "melting point is not observed" means that any
melting endothermic peak of crystal with a melting endothermic entalpy of
crystal of 1 J/g or more is not observed in the temperature range of -150
to 200° C. The measurement conditions are as described in Examples
of the seventh aspect.

[0745] The intrinsic viscosity [η] of propylene-based polymer (B7) is
generally 0.01 to 10 dl/g, and preferably 0.05 to 10 dl/g as measured in
decalin at 135° C.

[0746] Propylene-based polymer (B7) preferably has the same triad
tacticity (mm-fraction) as propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer
(B1) used in the first aspect, whereby the same effect is obtained.

[0747] Namely, the triad tacticity (mm-fraction) of propylene-based
polymer (B7) determined by 13C-NMR is preferably 85% or more, more
preferably 85% to 97.5%, still more preferably 87% to 97%, and
particularly preferably 90% to 97%. Polymer (B7) with the above range of
triad tacticity (mm-fraction) is preferred for the seventh aspect,
because excellent balance of flexibility and mechanical strength is
attained, in particular. The mm-fraction can be determined by the method
described in WO 04/087775 from Page 21 line 7 to Page 26 line 6.

[0748] The methods for producing propylene-based polymer (B7) are not
particularly limited to, but include methods similar to those for
producing propylene-based polymer (B5) used in the fifth aspect.

[0749] It is desirable that propylene-based polymer (B7) has additionally
independently the following properties.

[0750] The Shore A hardness of propylene-based polymer (B7) is preferably
30 to 80, and more preferably 35 to 70.

[0751] The stress at 100% elongation (M100) of propylene-based polymer
(B7) is generally 4 MPa or less, preferably 3 MPa or less, and more
preferably 2 MPa or less, as measured in accordance with JIS K6301 at a
span distance of 30 mm and a tensile speed of 30 mm/min with a JIS #3
dumbbell at 23° C. With the above range of M100, propylene polymer
(B7) provides excellent flexibility and rubber elasticity.

[0752] Propylene-based polymer (B7) preferably has the same properties as
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) used in the first aspect
concerning crystallinity, glass transition temperature Tg, and molecular
weight distribution (Mw/Mn). These properties provide the same effects.

[0754] When propylene-based polymer (B7) shows a melting point (Tm in
° C.) in the endothermic curve recorded with a differential
scanning calorimeter (DSC), the melting endothermic entalpy, ΔH, is
generally 30 J/g or less, and also satisfies the same relation between
C3 content (mol %) and melting endothermic entalpy ΔH (J/g) as
that of propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) used in the
first aspect.

[0759] Ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) optionally used in the
seventh aspect is a non-crystalline or low-crystalline random or block
copolymer composed of ethylene and a C3-C20 α-olefin.

[0760] Its density (evaluated in accordance with ASTM D1505) is generally
0.857 g/cm3 or more and 0.910 g/cm3 or less, preferably 0.860
to 0.905 g/cm3, and more preferably 0.880 to 0.905 g/cm3; and
its melt flow rate (MFR measured in accordance with ASTM D1238 at
190° C. under a load of 2.16 kg) is generally 0.1 to 40 g/10 min,
and preferably 0.5 to 20 g/10 min.

[0761] The C3-C20 α-olefins include, specifically,
propylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene, 1-heptene, 1-octene, 1-nonene,
1-decene, 1-undecene, 1-dodecene, 1-hexadecene, 1-octadecene,
1-nonadecene, 1-eicosene, 4-methyl-1-pentene, and others. Among them,
preferred are C3-C10 α-olefins, and particularly
preferred are propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, and 1-octene. These
α-olefins may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0767] With ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7), it is desirable that
the ratio MFR10/MFR2, wherein MFR10 and MFR2 are melt
flow rates under a load of 10 kg and a load of 2.16 kg, respectively,
measured at 190° C. in accordance with ASTM D1238, satisfies
following relations:

MFR10/MFR2≧6.0,

preferably

7≦MRT10/MFR2≦15, and at the same time,

the molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) and MRT10/MFR2
satisfy the following relation:

Mw/Mn+5.0<MFR10/MFR2

[0768] These relations ensure availability of foaming material (X7)
capable of preparing foams (uncrosslinked or crosslinked) that is foamed
at high foaming ratio, i.e. having low specific gravity, highly elastic,
and excellent in permanent compression set and filling property.

[0769] Desirably, in the 13C-NMR spectrum of ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer (C7), the intensity ratio of Tαβ to Tαα
(Tαβ/Tαα) is 0.5 or less, and preferably 0.4 or
less.

[0770] Here, Tαα and Tαβ are the peak intensities
of CH2 in the structural units derived from an α-olefin having
3 or more carbon atoms, and these two kinds of CH2 groups are
different in the position relative to the tertiary carbon atom as shown
below.

##STR00001##

[0771] Tαβ/Tαα is determined as follows. For
example, the 13C-NMR spectrum of ethylene/α-olefin copolymer
(C7) is recorded on an NMR spectrometer (JEOL-GX270, manufactured by JEOL
Ltd.) with a solution containing 5 wt % of the sample in
hexachlorobutadiene/benzene-d6 (2/1 by volume) mixed solvent, at
67.8 MHz at 25° C. using benzene-d6 (128 ppm) as reference.
The obtained 13C-NMR spectrum is analyzed in accordance with
proposals by Lindeman & Adams (Analysis Chemistry 43, 1245 (1971)) and J.
C. Randall (Reviews in Macromolecular Chemistry and Physics, C29, 201
(1989)) to obtain Tαβ/Tαα.

[0772] It is desirable that the B-value of ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer (C7) is 0.9 to 1.5 and preferably 0.95 to 1.2, which is
obtained from the 13C-NMR spectrum using equation (7-1) below:

B-value=[POE]/(2[PE][PO]). (7-1),

(in the formula, [PE] is the mole fraction of ethylene-derived
structural units in the copolymer; [PO] is the mole fraction of
α-olefin-derived structural units in the copolymer; and [POE]
is the ratio of number of ethylene-α-olefin dyad to the total
number of dyads in the copolymer).

[0773] This B-value is an index representing the distribution of ethylene
units and the C3-C20 α-olefin units in the
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer, and is obtained according to papers by
J. C. Randall (Macromolecules, 15, 353 (1982)) and J. Ray et al.
(Macromolecules, 10, 773 (1977)).

[0774] The B-value of ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) is typically
determined by acquiring the 13C-NMR spectrum of a sample solution,
in which about 200 mg of the ethylene/α-olefin copolymer is
homogeneously dissolved in 1 mL of hexachlorobutadiene, in a 10-mmφ
sample tube at measurement temperature of 120° C. with measurement
frequency of 25.05 MHz, spectrum width of 1500 Hz, pulse repetition
interval of 4.2 sec, and pulse width of 6 μsec.

[0775] A larger B-value means that each blocked chain of ethylene or
α-olefin copolymer is shorter, that is, the distribution of
ethylene and α-olefin is more uniform, or the composition
distribution in copolymer rubber is narrower. As the B-value is more
lowered from 1.0, the ethylene/α-olefin copolymer has a wider
composition distribution and hence disadvantages such as difficulties in
handling.

[0776] Ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) can be produced by
conventional methods using a vanadium catalyst, a titanium catalyst, or a
metallocene catalyst. In particular, solution polymerization described in
Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. S62-121709 and others are
preferable.

[0777] Ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) is used, if any, in an
amount of 1 to 1900 parts by weight, preferably 5 to 1000 parts by
weight, and more preferably 5 to 500 parts by weight, relative to 100
parts by weight of the total of propylene-based polymer (B7) and
propylene-based polymer (A7), which is optionally used. The composition
containing such amount of component (C7) provides foams having low
specific gravity and low permanent compression set in particular. This
effect is particularly remarkable in use for crosslinked foams.

<Ethylene/Polar Monomer Copolymer (D7)>

[0778] As the polar monomer used for ethylene/polar monomer copolymer (D7)
optionally used in the seventh aspect, there may be mentioned,
unsaturated carboxylic acids, their salts, their esters, their amides,
vinyl esters, carbon monoxide, and others. Specifically, the polar
monomer may be one compound or two or more compounds selected from
unsaturated carboxylic acids such as acrylic acid, methacrylic acid,
fumaric acid, itaconic acid, monomethyl maleate, monoethyl maleate,
maleic anhydride, and itanonic anhydride; salts of such unsaturated
carboxylic acid with a mono-valent metal such as lithium, sodium, and
potassium; salts of such unsaturated carboxylic acid with a poly-valent
metal such as magnesium, calcium, and zinc; unsaturated carboxylic esters
such as methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, isopropyl acrylate, isobutyl
acrylate, n-butyl acrylate, isooctyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, ethyl
methacrylate, isobutyl methacrylate, and dimethyl maleate; vinyl esters
such as vinyl acetate and vinyl propionate; carbon monoxide; sulfur
dioxide; and others.

[0779] Ethylene/polar monomer copolymers (D7) include, more specifically,
ethylene/unsaturated acid copolymers such as ethylene/acrylic acid
copolymer and ethylene/methacrylic acid copolymer; ionomers wherein part
or all of carboxyl protons in said ethylene/unsaturated carboxylic acid
copolymer are replaced by the metals described above;
ethylene/unsaturated carboxylate copolymers such as ethylene/methyl
acrylate copolymer, ethylene/ethyl acrylate copolymer, ethylene/methyl
methacrylate copolymer, ethylene/isobutyl acrylate copolymer, and
ethylene/n-butyl acrylate copolymer; ethylene/unsaturated
carboxylate/unsaturated carboxylic acid copolymers such as
ethylene/isobutyl acrylate/methacrylic acid copolymer and
ethylene/n-butyl acrylate/methacrylic acid copolymer; ionomers wherein
part or all of carboxyl protons in said ethylene/unsaturated
carboxylate/unsaturated carboxylic acid copolymer are replaced by the
metals described above; ethylene/vinyl ester copolymers such as
ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer; and others.

[0780] In particular, (D7) of these, copolymers of ethylene and a polar
monomer selected from unsaturated carboxylic acids, their salts, their
esters, and vinyl acetate are preferable; ionomers derived from
ethylene/(meth)acrylic acid copolymer, ionomers derived from
ethylene/(meth)acrylic acid/(meth)acrylate copolymer, or ethylene/vinyl
acetate copolymer are more preferable; and ethylene/vinyl acetate
copolymers are still more preferable.

[0781] In ethylene/polar monomer copolymer (D7), the polar monomer content
is 1 to 50 wt %, and preferably 5 to 45 wt %, although varied with the
polar monomer. It is desirable that such ethylene/polar monomer copolymer
(D7) has a melt flow rate (MFR) at 190° C. under a load of 2160 g
of 0.05 to 500 g/10 min, and preferably 0.5 to 20 g/10 min, considering
moldability, mechanical strength, and others.

[0782] The copolymers of ethylene with unsaturated carboxylic acids,
unsaturated carboxylates, vinyl ester, or the like can be obtained by
radical copolymerization at high temperature under high pressure. The
copolymers of ethylene and metal salts of unsaturated carboxylic acids
(ionomers) can be obtained by reacting the ethylene/unsaturated
carboxylic acid copolymers with the corresponding metal compounds.

[0783] When ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer is used as ethylene/polar
monomer copolymer (D7), the vinyl acetate content is 10 to 30 wt %,
preferably 15 to 30 wt %, and more preferably 15 to 25 wt % in the
ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer.

[0784] The melt flow rate (MFR, measured in accordance with ASTM D1238, at
190° C. under a load of 2.16 kg) of ethylene/vinyl acetate
copolymer (D7) is 0.1 to 50 g/10 min, preferably 0.5 to 20 g/10 min, and
more preferably 0.5 to 5 g/10 min.

[0785] When ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) is used, ethylene/polar
monomer copolymer (D7) is used in an amount of 1 to 1900 parts by weight,
preferably 5 to 1000 parts by weight, and more preferably 5 to 500 parts
by weight, relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of
propylene-based polymer (B7) and propylene-based polymer (A7) optionally
used.

[0786] When ethylene/polar monomer copolymer (D7) is an
ethylene/unsaturated carboxylic acid copolymer, blending of the copolymer
in the above ratio provides elastomer compositions capable of forming
crosslinked foams with excellent adhesion to other layers made of
polyurethane, rubber, leather, or the like. In addition, when
ethylene/polar monomer copolymer (D7) is blended in the above ratio, the
resulting foam layer is excellent in adhesion to other layers made of
polyurethane, rubber, leather, or the like, and suitable for lamination.

<Material for Foam (X7)>

[0787] Foaming material (X7) of the seventh aspect contains at least
propylene-based polymer (B7) and may further contain propylene-based
polymer (A7), if necessary. Foaming material (X7) is preferably a
composition containing 30 to 100 parts by weight of propylene-based
polymer (B7) and 0 to 70 parts by weight of propylene-based polymer (A7),
the melting point of (A7) being 100° C. or higher as measured with
a differential scanning calorimeter (here, the total of (A7) and (B7) is
100 parts by weight). More preferably, the foaming material contains 30
to 99 parts by weight of propylene-based polymer (B7) and 1 to 70 parts
by weight of propylene-based copolymer (A7); still more preferably, 50 to
95 parts by weight of propylene-based polymer (B7) and 5 to 50 parts by
weight of propylene-based polymer (A7); and particularly preferably, 70
to 90 parts by weight of propylene-based polymer (B7) and 10 to 30 parts
by weight of propylene based-polymer (A7).

[0788] Foaming material (X7) of the seventh aspect is preferably a
composition containing 1 to 1900 parts by weight of
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) and/or 1 to 1900 parts by weight
of ethylene/polar monomer copolymer (D7) relative to 100 parts by weight
of the total of propylene-based polymer (B7) and if any, propylene-based
polymer (A7). Such compositions include, for example,

[0789] (i) composition containing 1 to 1900 parts by weight of
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) relative to 100 parts by weight of
the total of propylene-based polymer (B7) and if any, propylene-based
polymer (A7);

[0790] (ii) composition containing 1 to 1900 parts by weight of
ethylene/polar monomer copolymer (D7) relative to 100 parts by weight of
the total of propylene-based polymer (B7) and if any, propylene-based
polymer (A7); and

[0791] (iii) composition containing 1 to 1900 parts by weight of
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) and 1 to 1900 parts by weight of
ethylene/polar monomer copolymer (D7) relative to 100 parts by weight of
the total of propylene-based polymer (B7) and if any, propylene-based
polymer (A7).

[0792] More preferred embodiments include a composition containing 5 to
1000 parts by weight of ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) among
composition (i), a composition containing 5 to 1000 parts by weight of
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) among composition (iii), a
composition containing 5 to 1000 parts by weight of
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7) and 5 to 1000 parts by weight of
ethylene/polar monomer copolymer (D7) among composition (iii), and
others.

<Foaming Agent (E7)>

[0793] Foaming agents (E7) optionally used in the seventh aspect include
chemical foaming agents, specifically, organic thermally decomposable
foaming agents including azo compounds such as azodicarbonamide (ADCA),
1,1'-azobis(1-acetoxy-1-phenylethane), dimethyl 2,2'-azobisbutyrate,
dimethyl 2,2'-azobisisobutyrate, 2,2'-azobis(2,4,4-trimethylpentane),
1,1'-azobis(cyclohexane-1-carbonitrile), and
2,2'-azobis[N-(2-carboxyethyl)-2-methylpropionamidine]; nitroso compounds
such as N,N'-dinitrosopentamethylenetetramine (DPT); hydrazine
derivatives such as 4,4'-oxybis(benzenesulfonylhydrazide) and
diphenylsulfone-3,3'-disulfonylhydrazide; semicarbazides such as
p-toluenesulfonylsemicarbazide; and trihydrazinotriazine, and also
inorganic thermally decomposable foaming agents including
hydrogencarbonates such as sodium hydrogencarbonate and ammonium
hydrogencarbonate; carbonates such as sodium carbonate and ammonium
carbonate; nitrites such as ammonium nitrite, and hydrogen compounds.
Among these, azodicarbonamide (ADCA) and sodium hydrogencarbonate are
particularly preferable.

[0794] As foaming agent (E7) in the seventh aspect, there may also be used
physical foaming agents (foaming agents do not necessarily generate
bubbles with chemical reaction), for example, organic physical forming
agents including aliphatic hydrocarbons such as methanol, ethanol,
propane, butane, pentane, and hexane; chlorohydrocarbons such as
dichloroethane, dichloromethane, and carbon tetrachloride; and
chlorofluorohydrocarbons such as CFCs, and also inorganic physical
foaming agents including air, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, argon, and water.
Among these, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and argon are excellent, because
they can dispense with vaporization process, are not expensive, and quite
hardly cause environmental pollution or ignition.

[0795] Since the physical foaming agent generates no decomposition
residue, mold staining can be prevented when the composition is
crosslinked foamed. In addition, the physical foaming agent is not
powdery and hence readily mixed in kneading. Further, with the physical
foaming agent, resultant crosslinked foams will not generate offensive
odors (for example, ammonia odor generated on decomposition of ADCA).

[0796] In the seventh aspect, the chemical foaming agent described above
may be used together, as long as no adverse effect such as offensive odor
or mold staining comes about.

[0797] For using a physical foaming agent in small scale production, the
agent, such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen, stored in a cylinder may be
supplied to an injection molding machine, an extrusion molding machine,
or the like either through a pressure regulator or while being
pressurized with a pump or the like.

[0798] In facilities for large-scale production of foamed articles, a tank
for storing liquid carbon dioxide, liquid nitrogen, or the like is
installed, the liquid is vaporized through a heat exchanger, and the gas
is supplied to an injection molding machine, an extrusion molding
machine, or the like through tubing and a pressure regulator.

[0799] In the case of a liquid physical foaming agent, the pressure of
agent in storage is preferably 0.13 to 100 MPa. If the pressure is too
low, the agent would sometimes fail to be supplied into an injection
molding machine, an extrusion molding machine, or the like after reducing
pressure. If the pressure is too high, the storage tank is required to
have high pressure resistance, whereby the tank sometimes becomes large
in size and complex in structure. The "pressure of agent in storage"
defined here is the pressure at which the agent is supplied to the
pressure regulator after vaporized.

[0800] When the chemical foaming agent is used as foaming agent (E7), the
chemical foaming agent is used in a ratio of generally 1 to 40 parts by
weight and preferably 2 to 20 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by
weight of the total of propylene-based polymer (A7), propylene-based
polymer (B7), ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7), and ethylene/polar
monomer copolymer (D7). Note that, the components other than (B7) are
optional, so that the amount of one or more of components (A7), (C7), and
(D7) may be 0 parts by weight. The amount of chemical foaming agent is
adjusted as appropriate according to a desired foaming ratio, because the
volume of gas generated from the foaming agent varies with species and/or
grade of the foaming agent to be used.

[0801] When the physical foaming agent is used as foaming agent (E7), the
amount of physical foaming agent is adjusted as appropriate according to
a desired foaming ratio.

[0802] In the seventh aspect, a foaming auxiliary may be optionally used
together with foaming agent (E7). The foaming auxiliary has functions
such as lowering the decomposition temperature of foaming agent (E7),
promoting the decomposition, and homogenizing bubble generation. Such
foaming auxiliaries include zinc oxide (ZnO), zinc stearate, organic
acids such as salicylic acid, phthalic acid, stearic acid, and oxalic
acid, urea or its derivatives, and others.

[0804] The amount of organic peroxide (F7) used in the seventh aspect is
generally 0.1 to 1.5 parts by weight, and preferably 0.2 to 1.0 part by
weight, relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of propylene-based
polymer (A7), propylene-based polymer (B7), ethylene/α-olefin
copolymer (C7), and ethylene/polar monomer copolymer (D7). Note that, the
components other than (B7) are optional, so that the amount of one or
more of components (A7), (C7), and (D7) may be 0 parts by weight. Use of
organic peroxide (F7) in the above ratio gives crosslinked foams having
appropriate structure of crosslinking. When organic peroxide (F7) is used
in the above ratio together with crosslinking auxiliary (G7), crosslinked
foams obtained have more appropriate structure of crosslinking.

[0806] In the seventh aspect, the desirable weight ratio of organic
peroxide (F7) to crosslinking auxiliary (G7) ((F7)/(G7)) is 1/30 to 20/1,
and preferably 1/20 to 10/1.

<Preparation of Material for Foam (X7)>

[0807] Foaming material (X7) related to the seventh aspect of is an
uncrosslinked and unfoamed material and may be in a molten state or
solidified by cooling into pellets or sheets.

[0808] Pellets of foaming material (X7) described above are prepared, for
example, as follows: at first, there are mixed required components
selected from propylene-based polymer (B7), which is the copolymer of
propylene and at least one C2-C20 α-olefin except
propylene and whose melting point is lower than 100° C. or not
observed with a differential scanning calorimeter, propylene-based
polymer (A7) having the melting point of 100° C. or higher as
measured with a differential scanning calorimeter,
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7), ethylene/polar monomer copolymer
(D7), foaming agent (E7), organic peroxide (F7), and optionally
crosslinking auxiliary (G7) and the foaming auxiliary, in the above
ratios, with a Henschel mixer or the like; the resulting mixture is
melted and plasticized with a kneader, such as Banbury mixer, roll, and
extruder, at a temperature at which foaming agent (E7) and/or organic
peroxide (F7) are not decomposed, so that the components are uniformly
mixed and dispersed; and then, the mixture is processed with a pelletizer
to obtain pellets.

[0809] Foaming material (X7) may optionally contain, besides the above
components, various additives such as filler, heat stabilizers,
weathering stabilizers, flame retardants, hydrochloric acid absorbers,
and pigments as long as the objectives of the seventh aspect are not
impaired.

[0810] The sheet (uncrosslinked and unfoamed foaming sheet) of foaming
material (X7) is prepared, for example, by molding the pelletized
composition prepared above using an extruder or a calendar molding
machine. Alternative methods for preparing the sheet include a method of
kneading components of the above composition with a Brabender mill or the
like, followed by forming the kneaded material into a sheet with a
calendar roll or a press molding machine; a method of kneading the
components using an extruder, followed by molding of the kneaded material
through a T-die or circular die into a sheet; and others.

<Foam>

[0811] The foam related to the seventh aspect is obtained by foaming or
crosslinking foaming of foaming material (X7) described above, generally
under conditions of 130 to 200° C., 30 to 300 kgf/cm2, and 10
to 90 min. However, the forming or crosslink forming time may be adjusted
out of the above range as appropriate, because it depends on the
thickness of mold.

[0812] The foam or crosslinked foam of the seventh aspect may be a foam or
crosslinked foam obtained by compression molding of a molded article,
which has been foamed or crosslinked foamed under the above conditions,
at 130 to 200° C., under 30 to 300 kgf/cm2, for 5 to 60 min,
at a compression ratio of 1.1 to 3, and preferably 1.3 to 2.

[0813] With the foam or crosslinked foam, the specific gravity (JIS K7222)
is generally 0.6 or less, preferably 0.03 to 0.4, more preferably 0.03 to
0.25, and still more preferably 0.05 to 0.25; while the surface hardness
(Asker C hardness) is generally 20 to 80, and preferably 30 to 65. The
gel fraction of crosslinked foam is desirably 70% or more, and generally
70% to 95%.

[0814] The crosslinked foam of the seventh aspect with such properties has
small permanent compression set, high tear strength, excellent vibration
damping property, and excellent scratch resistance.

[0816] A weighed sample of crosslinked foam is cut finely into chips, the
resulting chips are put in a sealed vessel with p-xylene, and p-xylene is
refluxed under normal pressure for 3 hours. Specifically, 1.5 g of the
sample is put in 100 cc of p-xylene at 140° C., which is refluxed
for 3 hours. Then, insoluble part is collected with a 325-mesh screen.

[0817] After that, the resulting sample (insoluble part) is completely
dried. The "corrected final weight (Y)" is calculated by subtracting the
weight of xylene-insoluble part other than polymers (for example, filler,
fillings, pigments, etc.) from the weight of dried residue.

[0818] On the other hand, the "corrected initial weight (X)" is calculated
by subtracting the weight of xylene-soluble part other than polymers (for
example, stabilizers, etc.) and the weight of xylene-insoluble part other
than polymers (for example, filler, fillings, pigments, etc.) from the
sample weight.

[0819] Now, the gel fraction (xylene-insoluble content) is determined by
the following equation:

[0820] The foam (uncrosslinked or crosslinked foam) related to the seventh
aspect is prepared, for example, by the following method.

[0821] The sheet of foaming material (X7) related to the seventh aspect
can be obtained, for example, from a mixture described in the section of
preparation of foaming material (X7), using a calendar molding machine,
press molding machine, or T-die extruder. The sheet is required to be
molded at a temperature below the decomposition temperatures of foaming
agent (E7) and organic peroxide (F7). Specifically, the sheet is
preferably molded under such conditions that the temperature of melted
foaming material (X7) is 100 to 130° C.

[0822] The sheet formed from foaming material (X7) by the above method is
cut to reduce its volume to 1.0 to 1.2 times of the volume of mold and
the cut material is inserted into the mold kept at 130 to 200° C.
A primary foam (uncrosslinked or crosslinked foam) is prepared under such
conditions that the clamping pressure of mold is 30 to 300 kgf/cm2
and the hold time is 10 to 90 min, although the hold time may be adjusted
beyond the above range as appropriate, because it depends on the
thickness of mold.

[0823] The mold for producing the above foam is not particularly limited
on its shape, but a mold with a shape capable of forming sheets is
generally used. This mold is required to have a totally closed structure
to prevent leakage of the resin melt and gas generated by decomposition
of the foaming agent. The mold frame preferably has tapered inside face
for easy release of resins.

[0824] The primary foam obtained by the above method is compression-molded
into a predetermined shape (prepare a secondary foam). The compression
molding is conducted at a mold temperature of 130 to 200° C.,
under a clamping pressure of 30 to 300 kgf/cm2, for a compressing
time of 5 to 60 min, at a compression ratio of 1.1 to 3.0.

[0825] The method for obtain the crosslinked foam through crosslinking
using ionizing irradiation is as follows. Firstly, the necessary
components selected from soft propylene-based polymer (B7), which is the
copolymer of propylene and at least one C2-C20 α-olefin
except propylene and whose melting point is lower than 100° C. or
not observed with a differential scanning calorimeter, propylene-based
polymer (A7) having a melting point of 100° C. or higher as
measured with a differential scanning calorimeter,
ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (C7), and ethylene/polar monomer
copolymer (D7) are melt-kneaded together with the organic thermally
decomposable foaming agent as foaming agent (E7) and other additives at a
temperature below the decomposition temperature of the organic thermally
decomposable foaming agent; then the resulting mixture is molded, for
example, in a sheet form to obtain a foaming sheet.

[0826] After the resulting sheet is exposed to ionizing radiation in a
predetermined exposure dose for crosslinking, the crosslinked foaming
sheet thus obtained is foamed by heating above the decomposition
temperature of the organic thermally decomposable foaming agent, whereby
a crosslinked foamed sheet is obtained.

[0828] The product shapes of the foam include, for example, sheet, heavy
board, net, and mold.

[0829] From the crosslinked foam (primary foam) thus obtained, a secondary
crosslinked foam with the above properties can be prepared, in a similar
manner to that in producing the above secondary foam.

<Laminate>

[0830] The laminate related to the seventh aspect of invention contains a
layer of the above foam (uncross linked or crosslinked foam) and a layer
made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of
polyolefin, polyurethane, rubber, leather, and artificial leather.

[0831] The above polyolefin, polyurethane, rubber, leather, and artificial
leather are not particularly limited; there may be used conventional
publicly known polyolefin, polyurethane, rubber, leather, and artificial
leather. The laminate is suitably used especially for footwear and
footwear components.

<Footwear and Footwear Components>

[0832] The footwear and footwear components of the seventh aspect are
composed of the above foam (uncrosslinked or crosslinked) or laminate.
The footwear components include, for example, shoe soles, shoe mid soles,
inner soles, soles, and sandals.

8. Eighth Aspect

[0833] Hereinafter, the eighth aspect of invention is explained in detail.

<Propylene-Based Polymer (A8)>

[0834] Propylene-based polymers (A8) used in the eighth aspect include
homopolypropylene and copolymers of propylene and at least one
C2-C20 α-olefin except propylene. The C2-C20
α-olefins except propylene include the same as those for isotactic
polypropylene (A1) used in the first aspect. Also, the preferable range
is the same.

[0835] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0836] The structural units derived from these α-olefins may be
contained in a ratio of 35 mol % or less and preferably 30 mol % or less
in propylene-based polymer (A8).

[0837] It is desirable that the melt flow rate (MFR) of propylene-based
polymer (A8), as measured at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg in
accordance with ASTM D1238, is 0.01 to 1000 g/10 min, and preferably 0.05
to 100 g/10 min.

[0838] The melting point of propylene-based polymer (A8) measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter is 100° C. or higher, preferably
100 to 160° C., and more preferably 110 to 150° C.
Propylene-based polymer (A8) may be either isotactic or syndiotactic, but
the isotactic structure is preferred considering heat resistance and
others.

[0839] There may be used, if necessary, a plurality of propylene-based
polymers (A8), for example, two or more components different in melting
point or rigidity.

[0840] To obtain desired properties, there may be used, as propylene-based
polymer (A8), one polymer or a combination of polymers selected from
homopolypropylene excellent in heat resistance (publicly known, generally
containing 3 mol % or less of copolymerized components except propylene),
block polypropylene excellent in balance of heat resistance and
flexibility (publicly known, generally containing 3 to 30 wt % of
n-decane-soluble rubber components), and random polypropylene excellent
in balance of flexibility and transparency (publicly known, generally
having a melting peak of 100° C. or higher and preferably
110° C. to 150° C. as measured with a differential scanning
calorimeter DSC).

[0841] Such propylene-based polymer (A8) can be produced in a similar
manner to that for producing isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the
first aspect.

<Soft Propylene-Based Copolymer (B8)>

[0842] Soft propylene-based copolymer (B8) used in the eighth aspect is a
copolymer of propylene and at least one C2-C20 α-olefin
except propylene. Shore A hardness thereof is 30 to 80 and preferably 35
to 70, and melting point thereof is lower than 100° C. or not
observed when measured with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC).
Here, "melting point is not observed" means that any melting endothermic
peak of crystal having a melting endothermic enthalpy of crystal of 1 J/g
or more is not observed in the temperature range of -150 to 200°
C. The measurement conditions are as described in Examples.

[0843] In soft propylene-based copolymer (B8), the α-olefin used as
a co-monomer is preferably ethylene and/or a C4-C20
α-olefin.

[0844] In soft propylene-based copolymer (B8), preferably, the content of
propylene-derived units is 45 to 92 mol % and preferably 56 to 90 mol %,
and the content of units derived from the α-olefin used as a
co-monomer is 8 to 55 mol % and preferably 10 to 44 mol %.

[0845] It is desirable that the melt flow rate (MFR) of soft
propylene-based copolymer (B8), as measured at 230° C. under a
load of 2.16 kg in accordance with ASTM D1238, is 0.01 to 100 g/10 min
and preferably 0.05 to 50 g/10 min.

[0846] The method for producing soft propylene-based copolymer (B8) is not
particularly limited; it may be produced by polymerizing propylene or
copolymerizing propylene and another α-olefin in the presence of a
publicly known catalyst used for stereospecific olefin polymerization
capable of yielding an isotactic or syndiotactic polymer, for example, a
catalyst mainly composed of a solid titanium component and an
organometallic compound, or a metallocene catalyst containing a
metallocene compound as one of catalyst components. Preferably, as
described later, the copolymer is produced by copolymerizing propylene,
ethylene, and a C4-C20 α-olefin in the presence of the
metallocene catalyst.

[0847] It is desirable that soft propylene-based polymer (B8) has
additionally independently the following properties. Soft propylene-based
copolymer (B8) preferably has the same properties as
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) used in the first aspect
concerning triad tacticity (mm-fraction), stress at 100% elongation,
crystallinity, glass transition temperature Tg, and molecular weight
distribution (Mw/Mn). These properties provide the same effects.

[0848] For instance, the triad tacticity (mm-fraction) of soft
propylene-based copolymer (B8) determined by 13C-NMR is preferably
85% or more, more preferably 85% to 97.5%, still more preferably 87% to
97%, and particularly preferably 90 to 97%.

[0849] With the above range of triad tacticity (mm-fraction), the
composition is excellent particularly in balance of flexibility and
mechanical strength, which is preferable in the present invention. The
mm-fraction can be determined by the method described in WO 2004/087775
pamphlet from Page 21 line 7 to Page 26 line 6.

[0850] The molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn, relative to polystyrene
standards, Mw: weight average molecular weight, Mn: number average
molecular weight) of soft propylene-based copolymer (B8), as measured by
GPC, is preferably 4.0 or less, more preferably 3.0 or less, and still
more preferably 2.5 or less.

[0851] When soft propylene-based copolymer (B8) has a melting point (Tm in
° C.) in the endothermic curve recorded with a differential
scanning calorimeter (DSC), its melting endothermic entalpy, EH, is
generally 30 J/g or less and the same relation is satisfied between
C3 content (mol %) and melting endothermic entalpy ΔH (J/g) as
that in propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) used in the
first aspect.

[0853] In propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B8-1), the content
of propylene-derived structural units is 45 to 92 mol %, preferably 56 to
90 mol %, and more preferably 61 to 86 mol %; that of ethylene-derived
structural units is 5 to 25 mol %, preferably 5 to 14 mol %, and more
preferably 8 to 14 mol %; and that of C4-C20
α-olefin-derived structural units is 3 to 30 mol %, preferably 5 to
30 mol %, and more preferably 6 to 25 mol %. Of the α-olefins
1-butene is particularly preferable.

[0855] Further, with the above range of ratios of the structural units
derived from propylene, ethylene, and a C4 to C20
α-olefin, materials with excellent balance of flexibility, heat
resistance, and scratch resistance can be obtained.

<Coupling Agent (Y8)>

[0856] As coupling agent (Y8) used in the eighth aspect, there may be
used, without particular limitation, any agent that can improve adhesion
between the layer containing resin composition (X8) used in the eighth
aspect and another layer containing a polar group-containing resin or an
inorganic substance, such as metal, in an amount of 50 wt % or more.
Suitably used are silane-, titanate-, and chromium-type coupling agents.
In particular, the silane-type coupling agent (silane coupling agent) is
preferably used.

[0857] As the silane coupling agent, publicly known silane coupling agents
may be used without particular limitation. Specifically, there may be
mentioned n-butyltrimethoxysilane, n-butyltriethoxysilane,
n-hexyltrimethoxysilane, n-hexyltriethoxysilane, n-octyltrimethoxysilane,
n-octyltriethoxysilane, n-octyltripropoxysilane, vinyltriethoxysilane,
vinyltrimethoxysilane, vinyltris(β-methoxyethoxy)silane,
γ-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane,
γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane, and the like.

[0859] Further, the following auxiliaries may be used as necessary in the
eighth aspect. Preferred examples of such auxiliary specifically include
auxiliaries for peroxy-crosslinking such as sulfur, p-quinonedioxime,
p,p'-dibenzoylquinonedioxime, N-methyl-N,4-dinitrosoaniline,
nitrosobenzene, diphenylguanidine, and
trimethylolpropane-N,N'-m-phenylene dimaleimide; divinylbenzene; triallyl
cyanurate (TAC); triallyl isocyanurate (TRIC); and others. There may also
be used multifunctional methacrylate monomers such as ethylene glycol
dimethacrylate, diethylene glycol dimethacrylate, polyethylene glycol
dimethacrylate, trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate, and allyl
methacrylate; multifunctional vinyl monomers such as vinyl butyrate and
vinyl stearate; and others. Among them, triallyl cyanurate (TAC) and
triallyl isocyanurate (TAIL) are preferred.

[0860] In the eighth aspect, it is desirable to use the auxiliary in such
an amount that the weight ratio of the auxiliary to the organic peroxide
((auxiliary)/(organic peroxide)) is 1/30 to 20/1, and preferably 1/20 to
10/1.

[0861] Resin composition (X8) may be crosslinked, but preferably it is
non-crosslinked. Here, "Non-crosslinked" means that the content of
components insoluble in boiled xylene is 0.1 wt % or less of the whole
organic substances present in the composition. In practice, 1.5 g of the
sample is dissolved in 100 cc of p-xylene (140° C.), and after the
mixture is refluxed for 3 hr, insoluble components are recovered with a
325-mesh screen. From the weight of dried residue of the insoluble
components, is subtracted the weight of xylene-insoluble components other
than polymers (for example, filler, bulking agents, pigments, etc.) to
obtain "corrected final weight (Y)."

[0862] On the other hand, from the weight of the sample, is subtracted the
weight of xylene-insoluble components other than polymers (for example,
filler, bulking agents, pigments, etc.) to obtain "corrected initial
weight (X)."

[0863] Here, the components insoluble in boiled xylene is determined by
the following equation:

[0864] Resin composition (X8) used in the eighth aspect contains
propylene-based polymer (A8), soft propylene-based copolymer (B8), and
coupling agent (Y8). The content of (A8) is 0 to 90 wt % and preferably
10 to 70 wt %, and that of (B8) is 10 to 100 wt % and preferably 30 to 90
wt % (here, the total of (A8) and (B8) is 100 wt %). Desirably, the
composition further contains coupling agent (Y8) in an amount of 0.1 to
10 parts by weight, and preferably 0.5 to 5 parts by weight, relative to
100 parts by weight of the composition consisting of (A8) and (B8) (the
total amount of (A8) and (B8)), and also contains organic peroxide (Z8)
in an amount of 0 to 5 parts by weight, and preferably 0 to 3 parts by
weight, relative to 100 parts by weight of the composition consisting of
(A8) and (B8) (the total amount of (A8) and (B8)). When composition (X8)
contains organic peroxide (Z8), its amount is not less than 0.001 parts
by weight and not more than 5 parts by weight, and more preferably not
less than 0.01 parts by weight and not more than 3 parts by weight,
relative to 100 parts by weight of the composition consisting of (A8) and
(B8) (the total amount of (A8) and (B8)).

[0865] In the eighth aspect, adhesion can be attained even without organic
peroxide (Z8), but adhesion would be enhanced in some cases if the
organic peroxide is used in the above range according to applications. If
the amount of organic peroxide (Z8) is over the above range, the
molecular weight of the resin components including propylene-based
polymer (A8) and soft propylene-based copolymer (B8) decreases in some
cases.

[0866] Resin composition (X8) is characterized in that specific soft
propylene-based copolymer (B8) with the above properties is used as a
component. Use of soft propylene-based copolymer (B8) improves the
composition in balance of flexibility, heat resistance, and transparency,
and also provides high adhesion and high peeling strength to other
materials in a wider temperature range.

[0867] Resin composition (X8) may contain, as necessary, other resins,
other rubbers, additives such as antioxidants, heat stabilizers,
weathering stabilizers, slipping agents, anti-blocking agents, nucleating
agents, pigments, and hydrochloric acid absorbers, inorganic filler, and
others as long as the performances of the composition are not impaired.

[0868] After individual components and if necessary various additives are
blended, for example, with a mixer such as Henschel mixer, Banbury mixer,
and tumbler mixer, the blend may be molded, with a single-screw or
twin-screw extruder, into pellets, which are then supplied to a publicly
known molding machine. Alternatively, the blend prepared as above may be
supplied to a publicly known molding machine such as sheet molding
machine and injection molding machine.

[0869] The heat resistance (TMA) of resin composition (X8) is 100°
C. or higher, and preferably 110 to 130° C. The tensile strength
at break of resin composition (X8) is 8 to 25 MPa, and preferably 10 MPa
to 25 MPa, and its modulus in tension is 5 to 50 MPa, and preferably 10
to 35 MPa.

[0870] It is desirable that resin composition (X8) has, additionally and
independently, the following properties. Resin composition (X8) may have
each of the properties independently, but would be more preferable with
these properties at the same time.

(i) In the dynamic viscoelastic measurement at torsion mode (10 rad/s),
the loss tangent (tan δ) peak appears in the range of -25°
C. to 25° C., and the loss tangent is 0.5 or more; (ii) the ratio
of storage modulus G' (20° C.) to G'(100° C.)
(G'(20° C.)/G'(100° C.)) determined based on the above
dynamic viscoelastic measurement is 5 or less; and (iii) the residual
strain is 20% or less when a specimen is elongated by 100% at a tensile
speed of 30 mm/min with a chuck-to-chuck distance of 30 mm, kept for 10
min, and freed from the load, and the strain is measured after 10 min.

[0871] In a desirable embodiment in terms of (i), the loss tangent, tan
δ, is 0.5 or more, preferably 0.5 to 2.5, and more preferably 0.6
to 2 in -25° C. to 25° C. When tan δ is 0.5 or less,
the flexibility may be insufficient, or even through flexibility is
attained, scratch resistance tends to be poor.

[0872] In a desirable embodiment in terms of (ii), the ratio of storage
modulus G' (20° C.) to G' (100° C.) (G' (20° C.)/G'
(100° C.)) is 5 or less, preferably 4 or less, and more preferably
3.5 or less. When G' (20° C.)/G' (100° C.) exceeds 5, the
surface may suffer from stickiness or the like, possibly resulting in
poor handleability or inadequate heat resistance.

[0873] In a desirable embodiment in terms of (iii), the residual strain is
20% or less, preferably 18% or less, and more preferably 16% or less,
when a dumbbell specimen of 1 mm thick, 50 mm long, and 5 mm wide is
elongated by 100% at a tensile speed of 30 mm/min with a chuck-to-chuck
distance of 30 mm, kept for 10 min, and freed from the load, and the
strain is measured after 10 min. If the residual strain exceeds 20%,
rubber elasticity is likely to decrease, possibly making it difficult to
use in such applications where stretching property and resilience are
required.

[0874] It is desirable that a molded article made of resin composition
(X8) has an internal haze of 250 or less, and preferably 20% or less as
measured at a thickness of 1 mm.

[0875] It is also desirable that a molded article made of resin
composition (X8) has a Young's modulus in tension (YM) of 100 MPa or
less, and preferably 80 MPa or less as measured in accordance with JIS
6301.

[0876] The melt flow rate (measured in accordance with ASTM D1238, at
230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg) of resin composition (X8) is
generally 0.0001 to 1000 g/10 min, preferably 0.0001 to 900 g/10 min, and
more preferably 0.0001 to 800 g/10 min. The intrinsic viscosity [η]
of resin composition (X8) measured at 135° C. in
decahydronaphthalene is generally 0.01 to 10 dl/g, preferably 0.05 to 10
dl/g, and more preferably 0.1 to 10 dl/g.

[0877] It is preferred that in the endothermic curve for resin composition
(X8) obtained with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), the
temperature at maximum endothermic peak, which corresponds to the melting
point (Tm, ° C.), is observed at 100° C. or higher, and the
melting endothermic entalpy corresponding to the peak is preferably in
the range of 5 to 40 J/g, and more preferably 5 to 35 J/g.

[0878] The temperature at maximum endothermic peak (melting point) of
resin composition (X8) is 130° C. or higher, preferably
140° C. or higher, and more preferably 160° C. or higher.

[0879] The melt tension (MT) of resin composition (X8) is generally 0.5 to
10 g, and preferably 1 to 10 g. With this range of MT, the composition is
readily molded into film, sheet, tube, and the like. Here, the melt
tension (MT) is determined with a melt tension tester (available from
Toyo Seiki Seisaku-sho, Ltd.) as the tension applied on a filament when
the composition is extruded into a strand at a rate of 15 mm/min at
200° C. and the strand is drawn at a constant speed (10 m/min).

<Laminate>

[0880] A laminate usable in various applications can be obtained by
laminating a layer [a] containing resin composition (X8) and another
layer [b] containing a certain material (base material).

[0881] There is no particular limitation on the method for producing the
laminate. For instance, the laminate is obtained by a method in which
resin composition (X8) is molded with the above conventional molding
machine such as sheet molding machine and injection molding machine and
the resultant molding is heat-bonded with a base material with a heat
roller or by vacuum molding. Alternatively, the laminate may be produced
by melt-extruding resin composition (X8) on a base material. As long as
the effects of the eighth aspect are not impaired, an adhesive layer may
be provided between the molded article made of resin composition (X8) and
the base material layer, but in the eighth aspect, sufficient adhesion
strength can be obtained without the adhesive layer. When no adhesive
layer is provided, the laminate of the eighth aspect is excellent in
flexibility, rubber elasticity, and transparency, and the production
process is simplified.

[0882] As the base material for the laminate of the eighth aspect, a polar
material is used. Specifically, there may be mentioned metal (aluminum,
copper, stainless steel, iron, and other known metallic base materials),
inorganic compounds (glass and other known inorganic base materials),
polar plastics (AS (acrylonitrile/styrene) resin, ABS
(acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene) resin, polyvinyl chloride resin,
fluororesin, polyester resin such as polyethylene terephthalate and
polyethylene naphthalate, phenol resin, polyacrylic resin, polyamide
resin including various kinds of nylons, polyimide resin, polyamide-imide
resin, polyurethane resin, polycarbonate resin, and other known polar
plastics), and others.

[0884] Hereinafter, the ninth aspect of the present invention is explained
in detail.

<Propylene-Based Polymer (A9)>

[0885] Propylene-based copolymer (A9) used in the ninth aspect is the same
as propylene-based copolymer (A8) used in the eighth aspect.

[0886] Propylene-based copolymers (A9) used in the ninth aspect include
homopolypropylene and copolymers of propylene and at least one
C2-C20 α-olefin except propylene. The C2-C20
α-olefins except propylene include ethylene, 1-butene, 1-pentene,
1-hexene, 4-methyl-1-pentene, 1-octene, 1-decene, 1-dodecene,
1-tetradecene, 1-hexadecene, 1-octadecene, 1-eicosene, and others.
Ethylene or a C4-C10 α-olefin is preferable.

[0887] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0888] The structural units derived from these α-olefins may be
contained in an amount of 35 mol % or less and preferably 30 mol % or
less in the polypropylene.

[0889] It is desirable that the melt flow rate (MFR) of propylene-based
polymer (A9), as measured at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg in
accordance with ASTM D1238, is 0.01 to 10000 g/10 min, and preferably
0.05 to 100 g/10 min.

[0890] The melting point of propylene-based polymer (A9) measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter is 100° C. or higher, preferably
100 to 160° C., and more preferably 110 to 150° C.

[0891] Propylene-based polymer (A9) may be either isotactic or
syndiotactic, but the isotactic one is preferred considering heat
resistance and others.

[0892] There may be used, if necessary, a plurality of propylene-based
polymers (A9), for example, two or more components different in melting
point or rigidity.

[0893] To obtain desired properties, there may be used, as propylene-based
polymer (A9), one polymer or a combination of polymers selected from
homopolypropylene excellent in heat resistance (known homopolypropylene,
generally containing 3 mol % or less of copolymerized components except
propylene), block polypropylene excellent in balance of heat resistance
and flexibility (known block polypropylene, generally containing 3 to 30
wt % of n-decane-soluble rubber components), and random polypropylene
excellent in balance of flexibility and transparency (known random
polypropylene, generally having a melting peak of 100° C. or
higher and preferably 110° C. to 150° C. as measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter DSC).

[0894] Such propylene-based polymer (A9) can be produced, for example,
like isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first aspect, by
polymerizing propylene or copolymerizing propylene and the α-olefin
with Ziegler catalyst that is composed of a solid catalyst component
containing magnesium, titanium, halogen, and an electron donor as
essential components, an organoaluminum compound, and an electron donor,
or a metallocene catalyst containing a metallocene compound as one
component of the catalyst.

<Soft Propylene-Based Copolymer (B9)>

[0895] Soft propylene-based copolymer (B9) used in the ninth aspect is a
copolymer of propylene and at least one C2-C20 α-olefin
except propylene, and its Shore A hardness is 30 to 80, and preferably 35
to 70, and its melting point is lower than 100° C. or not observed
when measured with a differential scanning calorimeter DSC. Here,
"melting point is not observed" means that any melting endothermic peak
of crystal having a melting endothermic enthalpy of crystal not less than
1 J/g is not observed in the temperature range of -150 to 200° C.
The measurement conditions are as described in Examples of the ninth
aspect.

[0896] In soft propylene-based copolymer (B9), the α-olefin used as
the co-monomer is preferably ethylene and/or a C4-C20
α-olefin.

[0897] In soft propylene-based copolymer (B9), the content of
propylene-derived structural units is 45 to 92 mol % and preferably 56 to
90 mol %, and the content of structural units derived from the
α-olefin used as the co-monomer is 8 to 55 mol %, and preferably 10
to 44 mol %.

[0898] It is desirable that the melt flow rate (MFR) of propylene polymer
(B9), as measured at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg in accordance
with ASTM D1238, is 0.01 to 100 g/10 min, and preferably 0.05 to 50 g/10
min.

[0899] There is no particular limitation on the method for producing soft
propylene-based copolymer (B9). There may be mentioned methods similar to
those for producing soft propylene-based polymer (B8) used in the eighth
aspect.

[0900] Namely, soft propylene copolymer (B9) can be produced by
polymerizing propylene or copolymerizing propylene and the α-olefin
in the presence of a publicly known catalyst used for stereospecific
olefin polymerization that can yield an isotactic or syndiotactic
polymer, for example, a catalyst mainly composed of a solid titanium
component and an organometallic compound, or a metallocene catalyst
containing a metallocene compound as one of catalyst components.
Preferably, as described later, the copolymer is produced by
copolymerizing propylene, ethylene, and a C4-C20 α-olefin
in the presence of the metallocene catalyst.

[0901] It is preferred that soft propylene-based copolymer (B9) have
additionally independently the following properties.

[0902] Soft propylene-based copolymer (B9) preferably has the same
properties as propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) used in
the first aspect concerning triad tacticity (mm-fraction), stress at 100%
elongation, crystallinity, glass transition temperature Tg, and molecular
weight distribution (Mw/Mn). These properties provide the same effects.

[0903] For instance, the triad tacticity (mm-fraction) of soft
propylene-based copolymer (B9) determined by 13C-NMR is preferably
85% or more, more preferably 85 to 97.5%, still more preferably 87% to
97%, and particularly preferably 90% to 97%. With the above range of
triad tacticity (mm-fraction), in particular, excellent balance of
flexibility and mechanical strength is attained, which is desirable for
the present invention. The mm-fraction can be determined by the method
described in WO 2004/087775 from Page 21 line 7 to Page 26 line 6.

[0904] The stress at 100% elongation (M100) of soft propylene-based
copolymer (B9) is generally 4 MPa or less, preferably 3 MPa or less, and
more preferably 2 MPa or less, as measured in accordance with JIS K6301
at a span of 30 mm and a tensile speed of 30 mm/min at 23° C. with
a JIS #3 dumbbell. With the above range of M100, soft propylene-based
polymer (B9) provides excellent flexibility, transparency, and rubber
elasticity.

[0905] The crystallinity of soft propylene-based copolymer (B9) is
generally 20% or less, and preferably 0 to 15% as measured by X-ray
diffractometry. It is also desirable that the soft propylene-based
copolymer in the present invention has a single glass transition
temperature and that the glass transition temperature Tg is generally
-10° C. or lower, and preferably -15° C. or lower as
measured with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). With the above
range of glass transition temperature Tg, soft propylene-based copolymer
(B9) provides excellent cold temperature resistance and low-temperature
properties.

[0906] The molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn, relative to polystyrene
standards, Mw: weight-average molecular weight, Mn: number-average
molecular weight) of soft propylene-based copolymer (B9) is preferably
4.0 or less, more preferably 3.0 or less, and still more preferably 2.5
or less as measured by GPC.

[0907] When soft propylene copolymer (B9) shows a melting point (Tm in
° C.) in the endothermic curve obtained with a differential
scanning calorimeter (DSC), the melting endothermic entalpy ΔH is
30 J/g or less and the following relation is satisfied between C3
content (mol %) and melting endothermic entalpy ΔH (J/g):

[0911] The solar cell-sealing sheet of the ninth aspect is a solar
cell-sealing sheet (also called "sheet-shaped sealing material for solar
cells") formed from thermoplastic resin composition (X9) containing (A9)
and (B9) below in amounts described below:

[0912] propylene-based polymer (A9) in an amount of 0 to 70 parts by
weight, and preferably 10 to 50 parts by weight; and

[0913] soft propylene-based copolymer (B9) in an amount of 30 to 100 parts
by weight, and preferably 50 to 90 parts by weight, wherein the total of
(A9) and (B9) is 100 parts by weight.

[0914] As described above, with the preferred ranges of (A9) and (B9),
composition (X9) is nicely molded into sheets and resultant solar
cell-sealing sheets are excellent in heat resistance, transparency, and
flexibility, which is suitable for the ninth aspect.

[0915] In the solar cell-sealing sheet of the ninth aspect, there may be
used coupling agent (Y9) to promote adhesion of (A9) and (B9) to glass,
plastics, or the like. There is no particular limitation on coupling
agent (Y9) as long as it can improve adhesion between the layer
containing resin composition (X9) and another layer containing 50 wt % or
more of polar group-containing resin or inorganic substance such as
metal. Suitably used coupling agents are of silane-type, titanate-type,
or chromium-type. In particular, a silane-type coupling agent (silane
coupling agent) is preferably used.

[0916] As the above silane coupling agent, publicly known agents may be
used without particular limitation. Specifically they include
vinyltriethoxysilane, vinyltrimethoxysilane,
vinyltris(β-methoxyethoxysilane),
γ-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane,
γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane, and the like.

[0917] It is desirable that the silane coupling agent is contained in an
amount of 0.1 to 5 parts by weight, and preferably 0.1 to 3 parts by
weight, relative to 100 parts by weight of thermoplastic resin
composition (X9) (the total amount of (A9) and (B9)).

[0918] The above coupling agent may be grafted to thermoplastic resin
composition (X9) using organic peroxide (Z9). In this case, it is
desirable that the silane coupling agent is present in an amount from 0.1
parts to 5 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of
thermoplastic resin composition (X9) (the total amount of (A9) and (B9)).
Thermoplastic resin composition (X9) silane-grafted also provides the
same or more adhesion to glass and plastics as compared with a blend
containing the silane coupling agent. The amount of organic peroxide
(Z9), if used, is preferably 0.001 to 5 parts by weight, and more
preferably 0.01 to 3 parts by weight, relative to 100 parts by weight of
thermoplastic resin composition (X9) (the total amount of (A9) and (B9)).

[0919] As organic peroxide (Z9), there may be used publicly known organic
peroxides, including those which is the same as organic peroxide (Z8)
used in the eighth aspect, without particular limitation.

[0923] In the ninth aspect, the desirable weight ratio of the auxiliary to
the organic peroxide ((auxiliary)/(organic peroxide)) is 1/30 to 20/1,
and preferably 1/20 to 10/1.

[0924] Thermoplastic resin composition (X9) used in the ninth aspect may
be crosslinked, but preferably it is non-crosslinked. Here,
"non-crosslinked" means that the content of component insoluble in boiled
xylene is 0.1 wt % or less in the whole organic substances present in the
composition. Specifically, the content of component insoluble in boiled
xylene is determined in a similar manner to that described in the eighth
aspect.

[0925] Namely, in practice, 1.5 g of the sample is dissolved in 100 cc of
p-xylene (140° C.), which is then refluxed for 3 hr, and insoluble
components are recovered with a 325-mesh screen. From the weight of dried
residue of the insoluble component, is subtracted the weight of the
xylene-insoluble components other than polymer components (for example,
filler, bulking agents, pigments, etc.) to obtain "corrected final weight
(Y)."

[0926] On the other hand, from the weight of the sample, is subtracted the
weight of the xylene-insoluble components other than polymer components
(for example, filler, bulking agents, pigments, etc.) to obtain
"corrected initial weight (X)."

[0927] Here, the content of component insoluble in boiled xylene is
determined by the following equation:

[0928] The solar cell-sealing sheet of the ninth aspect also contains
various other additives, which include, for example, ultraviolet
absorbers and light stabilizers for preventing degradation caused by
ultraviolet rays in the sun light, antioxidants, and others.

[0929] As the ultraviolet absorbers, there are used specifically
benzophenones such as 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone,
2,2-dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone,
2-hydroxy-4-methoxy-4-carboxybenzophenone, and
2-hydroxy-4-(N-octyloxy)benzophenone; benzotriazoles such as
2-(2-hydroxy-3,5-di-t-butylphenyl)benzotriazole and
2-(2-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)benzotriazole; and salicylate esters such as
phenyl salicylate and p-octylphenyl salicylate.

[0930] As the light stabilizers, hindered amines are used.

[0931] As the antioxidants, hindered phenols and phosphites are used.

[0932] The sheet of the ninth aspect is obtained from a sheet made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X9) having a thickness of 0.1 to 3 mm.
If the thickness is below this range, glass or solar cells may be damaged
in the lamination step. If the thickness is over this range, the light
transmittance lowers, whereby the photovoltaic power generation possibly
lowers.

[0933] The methods for molding the solar cell-sealing sheet relating to
the ninth aspect, although not particularly limited to, include publicly
known extrusion molding (cast molding, extrusion sheet molding, inflation
molding, injection molding, etc.), compression molding, calendar molding,
and others. The sheet may be embossed. Surface embossing is preferred
since mutual blocking of sheets is suppressed and the embossed surface
serves as a cushion for glass and solar cells to prevent damage on
lamination.

[0934] For resin composition (X9) forming the solar cell-sealing sheet,
the internal haze is preferably 1.0% to 10%, and more preferably 1.5% to
7% when molded into a 1-mm thick press-molded sheet.

[0935] The internal haze of the solar cell-sealing sheet of the ninth
aspect is 1.0% to 10%, and preferably 1.5% to 7%. Note that, in this
case, the internal haze is measured with the solar cell-sealing sheet
irrespective of its thickness.

[0936] The light transmittance (Trans) of resin composition (X9) is 88% or
more, and preferably 90% or more when molded into a 1-mm thick
press-molded sheet.

[0937] The light transmittance of the solar cell-sealing sheet of the
ninth aspect is 88% or more, and preferably 90% or more. Note that, in
this case, the light transmission is measured with the solar cell-sealing
sheet irrespective of its thickness.

[0938] The heat resistance (TMA) of resin composition (X9) is preferably
80° C. or higher, and more preferably 90 to 130° C. when
molded into a 2-mm thick press-molded sheet.

[0939] The tensile strength at break of resin composition (X9) is
preferably 8 to 25 MPa, and more preferably 10 to 25 MPa, and modulus in
tension thereof is preferably 5 to 50 MPa, more preferably 10 to 35 MPa,
and still more preferably 10 to 30 MPa.

[0940] It is desirable that the solar cell-sealing sheet of the ninth
aspect or resin composition (X9) forming the solar cell-sealing sheet has
additionally independently the following properties. The following
properties each may be satisfied independently, but in more preferable
embodiments, these are satisfied at the same time.

(i) In the dynamic viscoelastic measurement at torsion mode (10 rad/s),
the loss tangent (tanδ) peak appears in the range of -25° C.
to 25° C., and the loss tangent is 0.5 or more; (ii) the ratio of
storage modulus G(20° C.) to G'(100° C.) (G'(20°
C.)/G'(100° C.)) determined based on the above dynamic
viscoelastic measurement is 5 or less; and (iii) the residual strain is
20% or less when a specimen is elongated by 100% at a tensile speed of 30
mm/min with a chuck-to-chuck distance of 30 mm, kept for 10 min, and
freed from the load, and the strain is measured after 10 min.

[0941] In a desirable embodiment in terms of (i), the loss tangent,
tanδ, is 0.5 or more, preferably 0.5 to 2.5, and more preferably
0.6 to 2 in -25° C. to 25° C. When tanδ is 0.5 or
less, the flexibility may be insufficient, or even through flexibility is
attained, scratch resistance tends to be poor.

[0942] In a desirable embodiment in terms of (ii), the ratio of storage
modulus G'(20° C.) to G'(100° C.) (G'(20°
C.)/G'(100° C.)) is 5 or less, preferably 4 or less, and more
preferably 3.5 or less. When G'(20° C.)/G'(100° C.) exceeds
5, the surface may suffer from stickiness or the like, possibly resulting
in poor handleability or inadequate heat resistance.

[0943] In a desirable embodiment in terms of (iii), the residual strain is
20% or less, preferably 18% or less, and more preferably 16% or less,
when a dumbbell specimen of 1 mm thick, 50 mm long, and 5 mm wide is
elongated by 100% at a tensile speed of 30 mm/min with a chuck-to-chuck
distance of 30 mm, kept for 10 min, and freed from the load, and the
strain is measured after 10 min. If the residual strain exceeds 20%,
rubber elasticity is likely to decrease, and moldability tends to be
poor.

[0944] It is desirable that resin composition (X9) has the same properties
as resin composition (X8) used in the eighth aspect concerning melt flow
rate, intrinsic viscosity [n], melting point (Tm, ° C.) and
melting endothermic entalpy.

[0945] Namely, the melt flow rate (measured in accordance with ASTM D1238
at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg) of resin composition (X9) is
generally 0.0001 to 1000 g/10 min, preferably 0.0001 to 900 g/10 min, and
more preferably 0.0001 to 800 g/10 min, and its intrinsic viscosity [n]
measured in decahydronaphthalene at 135° C. is generally 0.01 to
10 dl/g, preferably 0.05 to 10 dl/g, and more preferably 0.1 to 10 dl/g.

[0946] Preferably, in the endothermic curve of resin composition (X9)
obtained with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), the temperature
at maximum endothermic peak, which corresponds to the melting point (Tm,
° C.), is observed at 100° C. or higher and the melting
endothermic entalpy corresponding to the peak is in the range of 5 to 40
J/g, and more preferably 5 to 35 J/g.

[0947] The temperature at maximum endothermic peak (melting point) of
resin composition (X9) is 100° C. or higher, preferably
110° C. or higher, and more preferably 120° C. or higher.

[0948] The melt tension (MT) of resin composition (X9) is generally 0.5 to
10 g, and preferably 1 to 10 g. With this range of MT, the solar
cell-sealing sheet can be molded excellently. Here, the melt tension (MT)
is determined with a melt tension tester (available from Toyo Seiki
Seisaku-sho, Ltd.) as the tension applied on a filament when the
composition is extruded into a strand at a rate of 15 mm/min at
200° C. and the strand is draw at a constant speed (10 m/min).

[0949] Thermoplastic resin composition (X9) may contain other resins,
other rubbers, and inorganic filler, as long as the objectives of the
ninth aspect are not impaired.

[0950] The solar cell-sealing sheet of the ninth aspect can be used in a
solar cell in which said sheet is laminated on the one side and/or both
sides of a solar cell element, and if necessary, a surface-protective
layer is further laminated on the outer face of the solar cell-sealing
sheet(s). FIG. 9-1 shows one embodiment in which the solar cell-sealing
sheet is applied.

[0951] The methods for producing solar cells are not particularly limited
but include, for instance, a method in which a surface-protective layer,
a solar cell element, and the solar cell-sealing sheet of the ninth
aspect are successively laminated, and they are hot-press laminated by
vacuum suction or the like.

[0952] For the surface protective layer, publicly known materials may be
used without particular limitation as long as the layer can protect the
solar cell and solar cell-sealing sheet layer without impairing the
objectives of the solar cell. Specific examples of material used for the
surface protective layer include glass, polyethylene resin, polypropylene
resin, polycycloolefin resin, AS (acrylonitrile/styrene) resin, ABS
(acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene) resin, polyvinyl chloride resin,
fluororesin, polyester resin such as polyethylene terephthalate and
polyethylene naphthalate, phenol resin, polyacrylic resin, polyamide
resin including various nylons, polyimide resin, polyamide-imide resin,
polyurethane resin, cellulose resin, silicone resin, polycarbonate resin,
and the like. A plurality of these resins may be used. There may also be
preferably used an inorganic/organic composite film in which an inorganic
oxide or the like is deposited on such resin for improving performances
as gas and/or moisture barrier.

[0953] Between the surface protective layer and the layer of solar
cell-sealing sheet of the ninth aspect or between a plurality of surface
protective layers, a layer of publicly known adhesive or adhesive resin
may be interposed to enhance the adhesion.

[0954] According to the mode of using the solar cell, one side of the
surface protective layer may have light-shielding and/or light-reflecting
nature.

[0955] Applications of the ninth aspect include a solar cell module
fabricated by using the solar cell-sealing sheet of the ninth aspect and
an electric power generator having said solar cell module. As the
configurations of the solar cell module and electric power generator,
there may be mentioned the configurations in which the solar cell-sealing
sheet of the ninth aspect is used instead of the solar cell-sealing sheet
of the tenth aspect in the configurations of the solar cell module and
electric power generator of the tenth aspect described later. As
components other than the solar cell-sealing sheet used for the solar
cell module, for example, a front protective sheet for solar cell
modules, a back protective sheet for solar cell modules, a solar cell
element, there may be used the same components as those in the tenth
aspect described later.

10. Tenth Aspect

[0956] Hereinafter, the tenth aspect of the present invention is explained
in detail.

[0957] The tenth aspect of invention provides to an electrical/electronic
element-sealing sheet having layer (1-10) made of an ethylene-based
copolymer, in which the Shore

[0958] A hardness is 50 to 90 and ethylene content is 60 to 95 mol %, and
layer (II-10) made of thermoplastic resin composition (X10). The
composition contains 0 to 90 parts by weight of propylene-based polymer
(A10) whose melting point is 100° C. or higher as measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter, and 10 to 100 parts by weight of
propylene-based copolymer (B10) that is a copolymer of propylene and at
least one olefin selected from ethylene and C4-C20
α-olefins, in which the Shore A hardness is 30 to 80 and the
melting point is lower than 100° C. or not observed when measured
with a differential scanning calorimeter (wherein, the total of (A10) and
(B10) is 100 parts by weight).

[0959] The tenth aspect of invention is explained in detail below.

<Layer (I-10) Made of Ethylene-Based Copolymer>

[Ethylene-Based Copolymer]

[0960] The ethylene-based copolymer used for layer (I-10) of the tenth
aspect is obtained by copolymerizing ethylene and at least one monomer
except ethylene, has a Shore A hardness of 50 to 90, and contains 60 to
95 mold of ethylene-derived structural units.

[0961] With the above range of Shore A hardness, cracking of solar cells
in sealing can be suppressed, which is preferred. The Shore A hardness is
preferably 55 to 88, and more preferably 60 to 85. Shore A hardness can
be measured in accordance with JIS K6301.

[0962] The above range of ethylene content is preferred, since such
copolymer can readily attain the Shore A hardness in the above range. The
ethylene content is preferably 65 to 92 mol %, and more preferably 70 to
90 mol %. The ethylene content is determined by quantifying the ratio of
individual monomer units based on 13C-NMR spectrum.

[0963] In the ethylene-based copolymer used for layer (I-10), any monomers
except ethylene may be used without particular limitation as long as the
copolymer satisfy the above conditions on the hardness and ethylene
content. Therefore, various monomers copolymerizable with ethylene may be
used as appropriate, but it is desirable to use at least one monomer
selected from vinyl acetate, acrylic esters, methacrylic esters,
propylene, 1-butene, 1-hexene, 4-methyl-1-pentene, and 1-octene. These
monomers may be used alone or in combination of two or more. There is no
particular limitation on the combination when two or more monomers are
used.

[0964] Among these, vinyl acetate, propylene, and/or 1-butene are
preferably used as a co-monomer because the resulting ethylene-based
copolymer has excellent transparency, flexibility, and others.
Consequently, the ethylene-based copolymer is particularly preferably
ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, ethylene/propylene copolymer, or
ethylene/butene copolymer.

[Ethylene/Vinyl Acetate Copolymer]

[0965] In ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) preferably used in the
tenth aspect, it is desired that the content of vinyl acetate
(VA)-derived structural units is 5 to 40 wt %, and preferably 10 to 35 wt
%. With this range of VA content, the resulting resin has excellent
balance of weather resistance, flexibility, transparency, mechanical
properties, and film-forming performance.

[0966] The melt flow rate (MFR2.16) (measured in accordance with ASTM
D1238 at 190° C. under a load of 2.16 kg) of ethylene/vinyl
acetate copolymer is desirably 0.1 to 50 g/10 min, and preferably 1 to 30
g/10 min.

[0967] In layer (I-10), there may be used one ethylene/vinyl acetate
copolymer, or two or more ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymers different in
molecular weight, or the like.

[Ethylene/Propylene Copolymer or Ethylene/Butene Copolymer]

[0968] The ethylene/propylene copolymer or ethylene/butene copolymer
preferably used in the tenth aspect is a copolymer of ethylene with
propylene and/or butene, and generally a non-crystalline or
low-crystalline random copolymer.

[0969] This ethylene/propylene copolymer or ethylene/butene copolymer
desirably has a melt flow rate (MFR2.16) (measured in accordance with
ASTM D1238, at 190° C. under a load of 2.16 kg) of 0.1 g/10 min to
50 g/10 min, preferably 1 g/10 min to 30 g/10 min, and more preferably 5
g/10 min to 25 g/10 min. With this range of melt flow rate, the copolymer
provides electrical/electronics element-sealing sheets excellent in
flexibility with high productivity.

[0970] The density of such ethylene/propylene copolymer or ethylene/butene
copolymer (measured in accordance with ASTM D1505) is generally 855 to
905 kg/m3, preferably 857 to 895 kg/m3, and more preferably 858
to 890 kg/m3. This range of density nearly corresponds to the above
ethylene content at which preferable properties are attained.

[0971] For this ethylene/propylene copolymer or ethylene/butene copolymer,
the ratio of melt flow rate measured at 190° C. under a load of 10
kg (MFR10) (measured in accordance with ASTM D1238) to MFR2.16
(MFR10/MFR2.16) is preferably 5 to 12.

[0972] Desirably, the molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of
ethylene/propylene copolymer or ethylene/butene copolymer is 1.5 to 3.0,
and preferably 1.8 to 2.5 as measured by gel permeation chromatography
(GPC). With the above range of molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn), the
copolymer provides sheets with reduced stickiness after molded.

[0973] The crystallinity of such ethylene/propylene copolymer or
ethylene/butene copolymer is generally 40% or less, and preferably 10% to
30% as measured by X-ray diffractometry.

[0974] The ethylene/propylene copolymer or ethylene/butene copolymer as
described above can be produced by conventional methods in which a
titanium catalyst, a vanadium catalyst, or a metallocene catalyst (for
example, metallocene catalyst described in WO 97/10295) is used.

Silane Coupling Agent (Y10)

[0975] In a desirable embodiment of the tenth aspect, layer (I-10) further
contains 0.1 to 5 parts by weight of silane coupling agent (Y10), 0 to 5
parts by weight of organic peroxide (Z10), and 0 to 5 parts by weight of
a weathering stabilizer relative to 100 parts by weight of the
ethylene-based copolymer.

[0976] The main objective of blending coupling agent (Y10) is generally to
enhance adhesion to glass, plastics, and others.

[0977] As coupling agent (Y10), there may be used, without particular
limitations, any coupling agent that can enhance adhesion of layer (I-10)
to another layer made of glass, polyester resin, or the like. Preferably
used are silane-type coupling agents, titanate-type coupling agents, or
chromium-type coupling agents. Particularly, silane-type coupling agents
(silane coupling agent) are preferably used. Conventional silane coupling
agents may be used without particular limitation, specifically including
the same silane coupling agents as those used in the ninth aspect.

[0978] The amount of the silane coupling agent to be added is typically
0.1 to 5 parts by weight, and preferably 0.1 to 3 parts by weight
relative to 100 parts by weight of the ethylene-based copolymer. Adding
the coupling agent in the above ratio is preferred since it provides
sufficiently improved adhesion without adverse influence on the
transparency and flexibility of the resultant film.

[Radical Initiator]

[0979] For the coupling agents, including silane coupling agents as
representatives, the improving effects on adhesion to glass is enhanced
when the agent is grafted to the ethylene-based copolymer using a radical
initiator. As the radical initiator preferably used in the tenth aspect,
there may be used, without particular limitation, any radical initiators
that can graft the ethylene-based copolymer with the coupling agent.
Above all, organic peroxide (Z10) is particularly preferred as the
radical initiator.

[0980] The amount of organic peroxide (Z10) added herein is preferably 0
to 5 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of the
ethylene-based copolymer. The content of organic peroxide (Z10), if any,
is preferably 0.001 to 5 parts by weight and more preferably 0.01 to 3
parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of the ethylene-based
copolymer.

[0981] As organic peroxide (Z10), publicly known organic peroxides may be
used without particular limitation, but preferred specific examples
include peroxides like organic peroxide (Z8) used in the eighth aspect.

[Weathering Stabilizer]

[0982] Layer (I-10) may further contain various weathering stabilizers.
Preferred amount of the weathering stabilizer present in layer (I-10) is
0 to 5 parts by weight relative to 100 parts by weight of the
ethylene-based copolymer. For example, the content of weathering
stabilizer, if any, is preferably 0.01 to 5 parts by weight relative to
100 parts by weight of the ethylene-based copolymer. Adding the
weathering stabilizer in the above ratio assures sufficient improving
effects on weathering stability and suppresses deterioration in the
transparency and adhesion to glass of layer (I-10).

[0983] As the weathering stabilizer, there may be used one or more
compounds selected from ultraviolet absorbers, light stabilizers,
antioxidants, and the like.

[0984] As the ultraviolet absorber, light stabilizer, and antioxidant,
specifically, there may be mentioned those used in the ninth aspect.

[Other Components]

[0985] Layer (I-10) may optionally contain various components besides the
above components, as long as the objectives of the tenth aspect are not
impaired. For instance, it may contain as appropriate, polyolefins other
than the above ethylene-based copolymer, resins and/or rubbers other than
polyolefins, and one or more additives selected from plasticizers,
filler, pigments, dyes, antistatic agents, antibacterial agents,
fungicides, flame retardants, dispersants, and others.

[Composition and Formation Method of Layer (I-10)]

[0986] The thickness of layer (I-10) is generally 10 μm to 1000 μm
and preferably 20 μm to 600 μm. With this range of thickness, the
layer has sufficient adhesion strength to glass and also assures
sufficient light transmittance that contributes generation of high
photovoltaic power.

[0987] As the method for forming layer (I-10), there may be employed,
although not limited to, conventional extrusion molding (cast molding,
extrusion sheet molding, inflation molding, injection molding, etc.),
compression molding, calendar molding, and the like. In the tenth aspect,
preferred is a method in which layer (I-10) and layer (II-10) made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X10) described later are co-extruded
with a publicly known melt-extrusion machine such as cast molding
machine, extrusion sheet molding machine, inflation molding machine, and
injection molding machine, to obtain a laminate; or a method in which
thermoplastic resin composition (X10) is molded into layer (II-10), on
which layer (I-10) is applied as melt or hot-laminated to obtain a
laminate.

[0988] For the desirable composition forming layer (I-10), the internal
haze is 0.1% to 15%, and preferably 0.1% to 10% as measured with a 0.5-mm
thick specimen.

<Layer (II-10) Made of Thermoplastic Resin Composition (X10)>

[Thermoplastic Resin Composition (X10)]

[0989] Layer (II-10) used in the tenth aspect is made of thermoplastic
resin composition (X10) containing propylene-based polymer (A10) and
propylene-based copolymer (B10) described in detail below, in the
following ratio.

[0990] Namely, thermoplastic resin composition (X10) is composed of
propylene-based polymer (A10) in an amount of 0 to 90 parts by weight,
preferably 0 to 70 parts by weight, and more preferably 10 to 50 parts by
weight, and propylene-based copolymer (B10) in an amount of 10 to 100
parts by weight, preferably 30 to 100 parts by weight, and more
preferably 50 to 90 parts by weight. Here, the total of (A10) and (B10)
is 100 parts by weight. Thermoplastic resin composition (X10) used for
layer (II-10) may contain components other than (A10) and (B10), for
example, resins other than (A10) and (B10), rubber, inorganic filler, and
others as long as the objectives of the tenth aspect of the invention are
not impaired.

[0991] With the above range of ratio of (A10) and (B10), the composition
is excellently molded into sheets and also provide solar cell-sealing
sheets excellent in heat resistance, transparency, flexibility, and the
like.

[0992] With thermoplastic resin composition (X10), desirably, the
permanent compression set measured at 23° C. is 5% to 35% and the
permanent compression set measured at 70° C. is 50% to 70%.

[0993] With the above ranges of permanent compression sets, the resultant
sheet is freed from deformation over a wider temperature range from
normal temperature to high temperature, whereby preventing decrease in
power generation efficiency of solar cells. In particular, falling the
permanent compression set measured at 70° C. within the above
range is especially important in order to suppress sheet deformation due
to long-term loading such as gravitational load of glass itself in solar
cells.

[0994] The permanent compression set measured at 23° C. is more
preferably 5% to 30%, and still more preferably 5% to 25%. The permanent
compression set measured at 70° C. is more preferably 50% to 68%,
and still more preferably 50% to 66%. The permanent compression set can
be measured as follows in accordance with JIS K6301.

[0995] That is, six 2-mm thick press-molded sheets are stacked and
compressed by 25%; the stack is kept under this load at a specified
temperature (23° C. or 70° C.) for 24 hr; then the
compression is released and the thickness of the stack is measured. From
the results of the above measurement, the residual strain (permanent
compression set) after 24-hr loading is calculated from the following
equation.

Residual strain (%)=100×("thickness before test"-"thickness after
test")/("thickness before test"-"thickness during compressed")

[0996] The Shore A hardness of thermoplastic resin composition (X10) is
generally 55 to 92, and preferably 60 to 80. Within this range of Shore A
hardness, cracking of solar cells is prevented when the solar cells are
sealed, also the solar cells can attain flexibility, which protects the
solar cells against deformation and impact shock.

[Propylene-Based Polymer (A10)]

[0997] Propylene-based polymers (A10) used in the tenth aspect include
homopolypropylene and copolymers of propylene and at least one
C2-C20 α-olefin except propylene. The C2-C20
α-olefins except propylene include the same α-olefins as
those for isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the first aspect. Also,
the preferable range is the same.

[0998] These α-olefins may form a random or block copolymer with
propylene.

[0999] The structural units derived from these α-olefins may be
contained in an amount of 35 mol or less, and preferably 30 mol % or less
in the polypropylene.

[1000] Desirably, the melt flow rate (MFR) of propylene-based polymer
(A10) measured at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg in accordance
with ASTM D1238 is 0.01 to 1000 g/10 min and preferably 0.05 to 100 g/10
min.

[1001] The melting point of propylene-based polymer (A10) measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) is 100° C. or higher,
preferably 100 to 160° C., and more preferably 110 to 150°
C.

[1002] Propylene-based polymer (A10) may be either isotactic or
syndiotactic, but the isotactic structure is preferred considering heat
resistance and others.

[1003] There may be used, if necessary, a plurality kinds of
propylene-based polymers (A10), for example, two or more components
different in melting point or rigidity.

[1004] To obtain desired properties, there may be used, as propylene-based
polymer (A10), one or more polymers selected from homopolypropylene
excellent in heat resistance (publicly known, generally having 3 mol % or
less of copolymerized components except propylene), block polypropylene
excellent in balance of heat resistance and flexibility (publicly known,
generally having 3 to 30 wt % of n-decane-soluble rubber components), and
random polypropylene excellent in balance of flexibility and transparency
(publicly known, generally having a melting peak of 100° C. or
higher and preferably 110° C. to 150° C. as measured with a
differential scanning calorimeter (DSC)).

[1005] Such propylene-based polymer (A10) can be produced by a similar
method to that for producing isotactic polypropylene (A1) used in the
first aspect.

[Propylene-Based Copolymer (B10)]

[1006] Propylene-based copolymer (B10) used in the tenth aspect is a
copolymer of propylene and at least one olefin selected from the group
consisting of ethylene and C4-C20 α-olefins. The Shore A
hardness of this copolymer is 30 to 80, preferably 35 to 70, and its
melting point is lower than 100° C. or not observed as measured
with a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). Here, "melting point is
not observed" means that any melting endothermic peak of crystal having a
melting endothermic enthalpy of crystal of 1 J/g or more is not observed
in the temperature range of -150 to 200° C. The measurement
conditions are as described in Examples of the tenth aspect.

[1007] In propylene-based copolymer (B10), the α-olefin used as a
co-monomer is preferably ethylene and/or a C4 to C20
α-olefin.

[1008] In propylene-based copolymer (B10), preferably, the content of
propylene-derived units is 45 to 92 mol % and preferably 56 to 90 mol %,
whereas the content of units derived from the α-olefin used as a
co-monomer is 8 to 55 mol % and preferably 10 to 44 mol %.

[1009] It is desirable that the melt flow rate (MFR) of propylene-based
copolymer (B10), as measured at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg in
accordance with ASTM D1238, is 0.01 to 100 g/10 min and preferably 0.05
to 50 g/10 min.

[1010] The methods for producing propylene copolymer (B10), although not
limited to, but include a method like that for producing soft
propylene-based copolymer (B8) used in the eighth aspect.

[1011] It is desirable that propylene-based copolymer (B10) has
additionally independently the following properties.

[1012] Propylene-based copolymer (B10) preferably has the same properties
as propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) used in the first
aspect concerning triad tacticity (mm-fraction), stress at 100%
elongation, crystallinity, glass transition temperature Tg, and molecular
weight distribution (Mw/Mn). These properties provide the same effects.

[1013] For instance, the triad tacticity (mm-fraction) of propylene-based
copolymer (B10) determined by 13C-NMR is preferably 85% or more,
more preferably 85% to 97.5%, still more preferably 87% to 97%, and
particularly preferably 90% to 97%. With the above range of triad
tacticity (mm-fraction), particularly excellent balance of flexibility
and mechanical strength is attained. This is suitable for the tenth
aspect. The mm-fraction can be estimated by the method described in WO
2004/087775 from Page 21 line 7 to Page 26 line 6.

[1015] When propylene copolymer (B10) has a melting point (Tm in °
C.) in the endothermic curve obtained with a differential scanning
calorimeter (DSC), the melting endothermic entalpy ΔH is generally
30 J/g or less, and the same relation holds between C3 content (mol
%) and melting endothermic entalpy ΔH (J/g) as that of
propylene/ethylene/α-olefin copolymer (B1) used in the first
aspect.

[1019] Layer (II-10) used in the tenth aspect may optionally contain
components other than thermoplastic resin composition (X10), as long as
the objectives of the tenth aspect are not impaired.

[1020] For instance, the layer may contain, as appropriate, various
additives that may be added to layer (I-10) (coupling agents including
silane coupling agents, organic peroxides, and/or weathering
stabilizers), polyolefins other than the above ethylene-based copolymer,
resins and/or rubbers other than polyolefins, and one or more additives
selected from plasticizers, filler, pigments, dyes, antistatic agents,
antibacterial agents, fungicides, flame retardants, dispersants, and
others.

[Composition and Molding Method of Layer (II-10)]

[1021] The thickness of layer (II-10) is generally 0.1 mm to 5 mm, and
preferably 0.1 to 1 mm. With this range of thickness, the layer can
prevent damage on glass and solar cells in lamination process and also
assures sufficient light transmittance, which contributes to generation
of high photovoltaic power.

[1022] The methods for forming layer (II-10), although not limited to,
include conventional extrusion molding (cast molding, extrusion sheet
molding, inflation molding, injection molding, etc.), compression
molding, calendar molding, and the like. The above sheet may be embossed.
Embossing is preferred since embossed surfaces suppresses mutual blocking
of the sheets and functions as cushion for preventing damage on glass and
solar cells.

[1023] It is desirable that the internal haze of composition for forming
layer (II-10) is 0.1% to 15%, and preferably 0.1% to 10% as measured with
a 0.5-mm thick specimen.

<Electrical/Electronic Element-Sealing Sheet>

[1024] The electrical/electronic element-sealing sheets of the tenth
aspect include any electrical/electronic element-sealing sheet (also
called "sheet-shaped sealing material for electrical/electronic
elements") having at least one layer (I-10) made of the above
ethylene-based copolymer and at least one layer (II-10) made of
thermoplastic resin composition (X10).

[1025] Therefore, the number of layer (I-10) may be one, or two or more.
One layer is preferable from the viewpoint of lowering the cost through
simplification of sheet configuration, and utilizing light effectively
through minimizing the reflection at interface between layers when used
for sealing an element using light.

[1026] The number of layer (II-10) may be one, or two or more.

[1027] One layer is also preferable from the same viewpoints as in the
case of layer (I-10).

[1028] The methods for laminating layer (I-10) and layer (II-10) are not
limited to, but include preferably a method in which layer (I-10) and
layer (II-10) are co-excluded with a conventional melt-extruding machine
such as cast molding machine, extrusion sheet molding machine, inflation
molding machine, and injection molding machine to prepare a laminate; or
a method in which thermoplastic resin composition (X10) is molded to form
layer (II-10), on which layer (I-10) is applied in melt or hot-laminated
to obtain a laminate.

[1029] The electrical/electronic element-sealing sheet of the tenth aspect
may contain a layer other than layer (I-10) and layer (II-10) (also
called "additional layer" in the present specification), or may be
composed of only layer (I-10) and layer (II-10) without such additional
layers.

[1030] As classification according to objectives, other layers that may be
provided here include a hard coat layer for protecting the front and back
surfaces, an adhesive layer, a reflection preventive layer, a gas barrier
layer, an anti-fouling layer, and others. As classification according to
material, other layers include a layer made of ultraviolet-curable resin,
a layer made of thermoplastic resin, a layer made of polyolefin resin, a
layer made of carboxylic acid-modified polyolefin resin, a layer made of
fluororesin, and others.

[1031] There is no particular limitation on the positional relationship
among layer (I-10), layer (II-10), and another layer. An appropriate
layer constitution is selected in accordance with the objectives of the
invention. Namely, another layer may be placed between layer (I-10) and
layer (II-10), placed in the outermost layer of the electrical/electronic
element-sealing sheet, or placed in another position.

[1032] The number of other layers is not particularly limited, namely, the
sheet may contain any number or none of other layers.

[1033] From the viewpoint of lowering the cost through simplification of
the constitution, and utilizing light effectively through minimizing the
reflection at interfaces between layers when used for sealing an element
using light, it is particularly preferred to provide only layer (I-10)
and layer (II-10), each one layer, directly bonded together without other
layer.

[1034] The electrical/electronic element-sealing sheet related to the
tenth aspect is produced by laminating a plurality of layers. The method
for lamination is not particularly limited. The laminate can be produced,
for example, dry lamination using an appropriate adhesive, for example, a
maleic anhydride-modified polyolefin resin ("Admer" (TM, available from
Mitsui Chemicals, Inc.), "Modic" (TM, available from Mitsubishi Chemical
Corp.), etc.), a low-(or non-)crystalline soft polymer such as
unsaturated polyolefin, an acrylic adhesive such as
ethylene/acrylate/maleic anhydride ternary copolymer (for example,
"Bondine" (TM, available from Sumika CDF Chemical Co., Ltd.)),
ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, or an adhesive resin composition
containing these adhesives; or by heat lamination. An adhesive having
heat resistance of about 120° C. to 150° C. is preferably
used, and a polyester or polyurethane adhesive is suitable. To improve
the adhesion of both layers, for example, these layers may be treated
with a silane coupling agent or titanium coupling agent, or may be
exposed to corona, plasma, and others.

[1035] For the electrical/electronic element-sealing sheet of the tenth
aspect, the internal haze is preferably 0.1% to 15%, and more preferably
0.1% to 10%. Note that, in this case, the internal haze is measured with
the sealing sheet irrespective of its thickness.

[1036] The light transmittance is preferably 86% or more, and more
preferably 88% or more. The sheet having the above light transmittance
less lowers the power generation efficiency, and is suitably used for the
tenth aspect.

[Solar Cell-Sealing Sheet]

[1037] The electrical/electronic element-sealing sheet of the tenth aspect
is excellent in heat resistance, transparency, and flexibility, so that
the sheet is suitable for use as a sealing sheet for
electrical/electronic elements using intense light illumination, in
particular, a sealing sheet for solar cells (a solar cell-sealing sheet
or a sheet-shaped sealing material for solar cells). In using as a solar
cell-sealing sheet, the above electrical/electronic element-sealing sheet
may be used as it is or may be used after processing such as addition of
another layer.

[Solar Cell Module]

[1038] A solar cell module generally has a structure in which a solar cell
element made of polycrystalline silicon or the like is sandwiched between
solar cell-sealing sheets to form a laminate and both front and back
surfaces of the laminate are further covered with protective sheets.
Namely, a typical structure of solar cell module is represented as solar
cell module-protecting sheet (front protective sheet)/solar cell-sealing
sheet/solar cell element/solar cell-sealing sheet/solar cell
module-protecting sheet (back protective sheet). However, the solar cell
module, which is one of preferred embodiments of the tenth aspect, is not
limited to the above structure but may have any convenient layer other
than the above as long as the objectives of the tenth aspect are not
impaired. Specifically, the module may have, typically, although not
limited to, an adhesive layer, an impact-absorbing layer, a coating
layer, an reflection preventive layer, a back re-reflection layer, a
light diffusive layer, and the like. These layers may be formed in any
position suitable for objectives and characteristics thereof without
particular limitation.

[Front Protective Sheet for Solar Cell Module]

[1039] Although there is no particular limitation on the front protective
sheet for solar cell modules, but it is preferably possesses weather
resistance, water repellency, anti-fouling property, mechanical strength,
and other performances for assuring long-term reliability of solar cell
modules exposed to outdoor environment, because the sheet is positioned
in the outmost layer of the solar cell module. In addition, the sheet
preferably has high transparency and low optical loss in order to utilize
sun light efficiently.

[1040] The materials for the front protective sheet for solar cell modules
include a resin film made of polyester resin, fluororesin, acrylic resin,
or the like and a glass plate.

[1041] Polyester resin, particularly polyethylene terephthalate resin is
suitably used for the resin film since it has superiority in
transparency, mechanical strength, cost, and others. Fluororesins with
excellent weather resistance are also suitably used. Specifically, there
may be mentioned, tetrafluoroethylene/ethylene copolymer (ETFE),
polyvinyl fluoride resin (PVF), polyvinylidene fluoride resin (PVDF),
poly(tetrafluoro)ethylene resin (TFE),
tetrafluoroethylene/hexafluoropropylene copolymer (FEP), and
poly(trifluorochloro)ethylene resin (CTFE). In weather resistance,
polyvinylidene fluoride resin is superior whereas
tetrafluoroethylene/ethylene copolymer is excellent in both weather
resistance and mechanical strength. It is desirable to treat the film
surface treated with corona or plasma to improve adhesion to the above
sealing resin. An oriented film may also be used for improving mechanical
strength.

[1042] When the glass plate is used as the front protective sheet for
solar cell modules, the total light transmittance of glass plate is
preferably 80% or more, and more preferably 90% or more in the wavelength
of 350 to 1400 nm. As the above glass plate, a white glass plate with low
absorption in the infra red region is usually used, but even a blue glass
plate has a minor effect on output characteristics of solar cell modules
if its thickness is 3 mm or less. There is available reinforced glass,
which is heat-treated for enhancing the mechanical strength of the glass
plate, but a float glass without heat treatment may be also used. The
light receiving face of the glass plate may have reflection preventive
coating to suppress reflection.

[1043] As described above, the polyester resin and the glass have
excellent properties as the front protective sheet, but they are known to
be relatively difficult to be bonded. Layer (I-10) in the solar
cell-sealing sheet related to the tenth aspect is made of a specific
polyethylene copolymer with excellent adhesion and preferably contains a
silane coupling agent, so that layer (I-10) has excellent adhesion to the
polyester resin and the glass. Therefore, in the solar cell module of the
tenth aspect, it is desirable to bond the solar cell-sealing sheet to the
front protective sheet through layer (I-10).

[Back Protective Sheet for Solar Cell Modules]

[1044] There is no particular limitation on the back protective sheet for
solar cell modules, but the sheet is required to have similar properties
including weather resistance and mechanical strength to those of the
front protective sheet, since the sheet is positioned in the outmost
layer of the solar cell module. Accordingly, the back protective sheet
for solar cell modules may be made of a similar material to that of the
front protective sheet. Namely, the polyester resin and the glass are
preferably used.

[1045] Layer (I-10) of the solar cell-sealing sheet related to the tenth
aspect is made of the specific polyethylene copolymer with excellent
adhesion and preferably contains the silane coupling agent, so that layer
(I-10) has excellent adhesion to the polyester resin and the glass.
Therefore, in the solar cell module of the tenth aspect, it is desirable
to bond the solar cell-sealing sheet to the back protective sheet through
layer (I-10).

[1046] The back protective sheet is not essentially required to transmit
sun light, so that the transparency, which is required for the front
protective sheet, is not always requested. Therefore, a reinforcing plate
may be attached to the sheet in order to increase the mechanical strength
of the solar cell module or to prevent distortion and strain caused by
temperature change. For instance, a steel plate, a plastic board, and an
FRP (glass-reinforced plastic) board are preferably used.

[Solar Cell Element]

[1047] As the solar cell element of the tenth aspect of the present
invention, any element that can generate electricity based on the
photovoltaic effect of semiconductors, for instance, solar cells of
silicon (single crystal, polycrystalline, and non-crystalline (amorphous)
silicon), solar cells of compound semiconductor (Group III/V, Group
II/VI, etc.), wet solar cells, organic semiconductor solar cells, and
others. Among these, polycrystalline silicon solar cells are preferable
in terms of cost performance and others.

[1048] Both silicon and compound semiconductors are known to exhibit
excellent properties as solar cell elements, but they are also known to
be liable to damage by external stress, impact, or the like. Layer
(II-10) in the solar cell-sealing sheet of the tenth aspect is made of
specific thermoplastic resin composition (X10) with excellent
flexibility, so that layer (II-10) absorbs the stress and impact loaded
on the solar cell elements and effectively prevents damage on the solar
cell elements. Therefore, in the above solar cell module, it is desirable
to bond the solar cell-sealing sheet of the tenth aspect to the solar
cell element through layer (II-10).

[1049] Since layer (II-10) is made of thermoplastic resin composition
(X10), the solar cell element can be relatively easily removed from the
solar cell module even after the module is once fabricated. Such
excellent recyclability is also preferable.

[Electric Power Generator]

[1050] The solar cell module, which is a preferred embodiment of the tenth
aspect, is excellent in productivity, power generation efficiency,
service life, and others. Therefore, an electric power generator using
the solar cell module is also excellent in cost performance, power
generation efficiency, service life, and others, and practically
valuable.

[1051] The above electric power generator is suitable for long-term uses,
regardless indoor or outdoor, including uses as a power unit on the roofs
of houses, a portable power source for camping and other outdoor
applications, an auxiliary power unit for car batteries, and others.

EXAMPLES

[1052] Hereinafter, the present invention will be explained in detail with
reference to Examples, but the present invention is not limited to these
examples.

<First Aspect of Invention>

[1053] The followings are explanation on (i) preparation method and
properties of starting materials, (ii) preparation of specimens, and
(iii) test methods used for evaluation in Examples and Comparative
Examples.

(i) Preparation method and properties of starting materials

(a) Synthesis of Propylene/Ethylene/Butene Random Copolymer (PEER)

[1054] In a 2000-mL polymerization reactor fully purged with nitrogen, 833
mL of dry hexane, 100 g of 1-butene, and 1.0 mmol of triisobutylaluminum
were charged at normal temperature, the temperature in the reactor is
elevated to 40° C., and propylene was supplied so that the
pressure in the reactor increased to 0.76 MPa, and then ethylene was
supplied to adjust the pressure at 0.8 MPa. To the reactor was added a
toluene solution in which 0.001 mmol of
dimethylmethylene(3-tert-butyl-5-methylcyclopentadienyl)flu
orenylzirconium dichloride and 0.3 mmol (relative to aluminum) of
methylaluminoxane (available from Tosoh Finechem Corporation) had been
contacted, and the polymerization was conducted for 20 min while the
inside temperature was kept at 40° C. and the inside pressure was
kept at 0.8 MPa by supplying ethylene. Then, 20 mL of methanol was added
to terminate polymerization. After the pressure was released, the polymer
was precipitated from the polymerization solution in 2 L of methanol and
dried at 130° C. under vacuum for 12 hr to yield 36.4 g of PEBR.
For this polymer, intrinsic viscosity [η] was 1.81 dl/g, glass
transition temperature Tg was -29° C., ethylene content was 17 mol
%, butene content was 7 mol %, molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) was
2.1, and mm-fraction was 90%. No distinctive melting peak was observed
(ΔH was less than 0.5 J/g) with a DSC. The basic properties of the
present PEBR are shown in Table 1-1.

(b) Properties of Other Starting Materials

[1055] Table 1-1 shows the basic properties of other starting materials
used for the present evaluation, which are homopolypropylene (hPP),
random polypropylene (rPP), ethylene/butene random copolymer (EBR),
styrene/ethylene butene/styrene copolymer (SEBS), and low-density
polyethylene (LDPE). In the present evaluation, as a softener was used a
paraffin oil, "PW-90" available from Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd. (kinematic
viscosity at 40° C.: 95.5 cst).

[1056] For both hPP and rPP in the table, the isotactic pentad fraction
(mmmm-fraction) was 0.95 or more.

1. Melting Point and Glass Transition Temperature

[1057] In exothermic/endothermic curve measured with a DSC, the
temperature at which the maximum melting peak appeared in heating was
counted as Tm, and the secondary transition point observed in the
endothermic curve between -100° C. and 0° C. was counted as
Tg. A sample loaded on an aluminum pan was heated to 200° C. at
100° C./min, kept at 200° C. for 5 min, cooled to
-150° C. at 10° C./min, and heated at 10° C./min
during which the exothermic/endothermic curve was recorded.

2. Density

[1058] A strand that had been used for MFR measurement at 190° C.
under a load of 2.16 kg was kept at 120° C. for 1 hr, gradually
cooled to room temperature over 1 hr, and used for density measurement
with a density gradient column.

3. MFR

[1059] MFR at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg was measured in
accordance with ASTM D1238.

4. Co-monomer (C2, C3, and C4) contents

[1060] The contents were determined by 13C-NMR spectrum.

5. Molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn)

[1061] The Mw/Mn was measured by GPC (gel permeation chromatography) using
o-dichlorobenzene as a solvent at 140° C.

(ii) Preparation Methods of Specimens

[1062] Starting materials were kneaded in the ratios described in Table
1-2 with a Labo plast-mill (available from Toyo Seiki Seisaku-sho, Ltd.)
and molded into a 2-mm thick sheet with a press molding machine (heating:
190° C. for 7 min, cooling: 15° C. for 4 min, cooling
speed: about -40° C./min).

(iii) Evaluation Items for Properties

1. Permanent Compression Set

[1063] Six 2-mm thick press-molded sheets were stacked, compressed by 250,
kept under load for 24 hr at 23° C., 50° C., or 70°
C., and the residual strain (given by the following equation) was
examined.

Residual strain=100×"strain after test"("thickness before
test"-"thickness after test")/"strain" ("thickness before
test"-"thickness on compression")

[1067] For sheet specimens with the composition described in Tables 1-2
and 1-3, the mechanical properties, hardness, and permanent compression
set characteristics are shown in Tables 1-2 and 1-3. The results of oil
acceptance evaluation are shown in Table 1-4.

[1074] In an exothermic/endothermic curve measured with a DSC, the
temperature at which the maximum melting peak appeared in heating was
counted as Tm. Here, the sample loaded on an aluminum pan was heated to
200° C. at 100° C./min, kept at 200° C. for 5 min,
cooled to -150° C. at 10° C./min, and heated at 10°
C./min during which the exothermic/endothermic curve was recorded.

(2) Co-Monomer (C2, C3, and C4) Contents

[1075] The contents were determined by 13C-NMR spectrum.

(3) MFR

[1076] MFR at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg was measured in
accordance with ASTM D1238.

(4) Molecular Weight Distribution (Mw/Mn)

[1077] The Mw/Mn was measured by GPC (gel permeation chromatography) using
o-dichlorobenzene as a solvent at 140° C.

(5) Density

[1078] The density was measured in accordance with ASTM D1505.

(ii-1) Preparation of Samples

[1079] Starting materials were kneaded in the ratio described in Tables
2-1 and 2-2 with a Labo plast-mill (available from Toyo Seiki
Seisaku-sho, Ltd.) and molded into a 2-mm thick sheet with a press
molding machine (heating: 190° C. for 7 min, cooling: 15°
C. for 4 min, cooling speed: about -40° C./min).

[1081] Each sample was abraded using a "Gakushin" abrasion testing machine
available from Toyo Seiki Seisaku-sho Ltd. equipped with a 45R SUS-made
abrasion indenter weighing 470 g whose tip was covered with cotton cloth
No. 10, under conditions of 23° C., the number of reciprocations
of 100 times, a reciprocation speed of 33 times/min, and a stroke of 100
mm. The gloss retention percentage with abrasion, ΔGloss, was
calculated as follows.

[1083] A specimen was folded by 180° to form a symmetric shape.
After a cylindrical weight with 5 cm of radius and 10 kg of weight was
loaded on the folded specimen for 1 hr, the whitening level was evaluated
by visual observation.

[1084] With a Labo plast-mill, a composition was kneaded (40 rpm, 5 min)
at 150 to 160° C. and the kneadability was evaluated.

Excellent: kneadable, Poor: not kneadable (Non-melted part is present),
NE: not evaluated.

Examples 2-1 to 2-5

[1085] Using samples prepared in (ii-1) at the blending proportions
described in Table 2-1, items (1) to (3) above were evaluated. The
results are also shown in Table 2-1.

Comparative Examples 2-1 and 2-2

[1086] Using samples prepared in (ii-1) at the blending proportions
described in Table 2-2, items (1) to (3) above were evaluated. The
results are also shown in Table 2-2. Item (4) was evaluated for only
Example 2-4 and Comparative Example 2-1.

[1087] The above evaluation shows that the molded articles formed from
thermoplastic resin composition (X2) related to the second aspect of
invention are superior to those made of conventional compositions
composed of polypropylene and ethylene/α-olefin copolymer in
balance of flexibility and scratch and whitening resistances. In
addition, thermoplastic resin composition (X2) is kneadable at low
temperature, so that thermoplastic resin composition (X2) can be
processed under wider molding conditions including dynamic crosslinking.

(ii-2) Preparation of Samples

[1088] The starting materials described in Table 2-3 were kneaded with a
40-mmφ extruder to make pellets, which were melt-processed with an
injection molding machine under the following conditions to prepare
samples.

[1093] The tensile strength at break, elongation at break, and modulus in
tension were measured in accordance with ASTM D638 using ASTM-IV
injection-molded specimens at 23° C. and a tensile speed of 50
mm/min.

(2) Total Haze

[1094] The total haze was measured with an injection-molded square plate,
110×110×3 (thickness) mm in size.

(3) Falling Ball Whitening Test

[1095] A steel ball weighing 287 g was dropped from a height of 80 cm on
an injection-molded square plate (110×110×3 (thickness) mm)
held on a cylindrical jig with an inside diameter of 55 mm. The change in
hue L (L-value in specular component excluded method) was evaluated in
whitened part where the steel ball was directly hit. The smaller ΔL
is, the more excellent whitening resistance is.

[1098] Two injection-molded square plates were stacked and fixed together
with a tape, and the stack was loaded with 5 kg of weight at room
temperature for 1 week. Stickiness experienced when the plates were
separated from each other was evaluated.

[1100] As clearly seen in Table 2-3, the composition related to the second
aspect of invention (Example 2-6) is particularly excellent in balance of
tensile elasticity, transparency, impact resistance, and whitening
resistance.

<Third Aspect of Invention>

(1) Measurement of Intensity of Magnetization in Decay Process Due to
Transverse Relaxation Up to 1000 μs in Pulse NMR Solid-Echo Experiment
Observed for 1H

[1101] The starting materials used in the present examples are as follows:

[1104] Specifically, PEBR was prepared as follows. In a 2000-mL
polymerization reactor fully purged with nitrogen, 917 mL of dry hexane,
85 g of 1-butene, and 1.0 mmol of triisobutylaluminum were charged at
normal temperature, the inside temperature of the reactor was elevated to
65° C., propylene was introduced so that the inside pressure of
the reactor increased to 0.77 MPa, and then ethylene was supplied so as
to adjust the inside pressure to 0.78 MPa. Into the reactor was added a
toluene solution in which 0.002 mmol of
dimethylmethylene(3-tert-butyl-5-methylcyclopentadienyl)fluorenylzirconiu-
m dichloride and 0.6 mmol (relative to aluminum) of methylaluminoxane
(available from Tosoh Finechem Corp.) had been contacted, and
polymerization was conducted for 20 min while the inside temperature was
kept at 65° C. and the inside pressure was kept at 0.78 MPa by
adding ethylene. The polymerization was terminated by adding 20 mL of
methanol, the pressure was released, and the polymer was precipitated
from the polymerization solution in 2 L of methanol and dried at
130° C. under vacuum for 12 hr to yield 60.4 g of the desired
copolymer.

[1109] The properties of the above starting materials were measured by the
following methods:

(1) Melting Point (Tm)

[1110] In an exothermic/endothermic curve measured with a DSC, the
temperature at which the maximum melting peak appeared in heating was
regarded as Tm. Here, the sample loaded on an aluminum pan was heated to
200° C. at 100° C./min, kept at 200° C. for 5 min,
cooled to -150° C. at 20° C./min, and heated at 20°
C./min during which the exothermic/endothermic curve was recorded.

(2) Co-Monomer (C2, C3, and C4) Contents and Mm-Fraction

[1111] The contents and mm-fraction were determined by 13C-NMR
spectrum.

(3) MFR

[1112] MFR at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg was measured in
accordance with ASTM D1238.

(4) Molecular Weight Distribution (Mw/Mn)

[1113] The Mw/Mn was measured by GPC (gel permeation chromatography) using
o-dichlorobenzene as a solvent at 140° C.

(5) Shore a Hardness

[1114] The Shore A hardness was measured in accordance with JIS K6301.

(6) Density

[1115] The density was measured in accordance with ASTM D1505.

(7) Content of N-Decane-Insoluble Components

[1116] n-Decane extraction test was conducted by the method described in
the present specification, and the content of n-decane-insoluble
components was obtained from the following equation:

[1119] A sample was cut out of this sheet and used for the pulse NMR
measurement (solid-echo experiment observed for 1H at 100°
C.) by the method described in the present specification. FIG. 3-1 shows
the intensity of magnetization in decay process M(t)C1
(corresponding to M(t)X-1) in transverse relaxation process up to
1000 μs.

[1120] FIG. 3-1 also shows the calculated intensity of magnetization in
decay process, M(t)CAL1, which was calculated from intensities of
magnetizations in decay processes of rPP(A3-1) alone and PEBR(B3) alone,
using equation 3-1-2 in the present specification, considering that the
content of n-decane-insoluble components in rPP(A3-1) was 98 wt % and
fB was 0.203. The differences, M(t).sub.CAL-M(t).sub.C, at
observation time, t, of 500 and 1000 μs (ΔM (500) and ΔM
(1000), respectively) are shown in Table 3-1. (In Example 3-2 and
Comparative Examples 3-1 to 3-3 below, the results were analyzed
similarly to above.)

Example 3-2

[1121] Intensity of magnetization in decay process M(t)C2 was
measured by the same method as that in Example 3-1 except that 50 wt % of
rPP (A3-1) and 50 wt % of PEBR (B3) were used (namely, n-decane-insoluble
propylene-based polymer (A3) was 49 wt % and PEBR (B3) was 50 wt %; based
on 100 wt % of the total of (A3) and (B3), (A3) was 49.5 wt %, (B3) was
50.5 wt %, and hence fa was 0.505). The results are shown in FIG.
3-2. FIG. 3-2 also shows the calculated intensity of magnetization in
decay process M(t)CAL2 obtained from the intensities of
magnetizations in decay processes measured for rPP (A3-1) alone and PEBR
(B3) alone using equation 3-1-2 in the present specification, considering
that the content of n-decane-insoluble components in rPP (A3-1) was 98 wt
% and fa was 0.505.

Comparative Example 3-1

[1122] Intensity of magnetization in decay process M(t)c3 was
measured by the same method as that in Example 3-1 except that 50 wt % of
rPP (A3-1) and 50 wt % of PER (b3-1) were used. The results are shown in
FIG. 3-3. FIG. 3-3 also shows the calculated intensity of magnetization
in decay process M (t)CAL3 obtained from the intensities of
magnetizations in decay processes measured for rPP (A3-1) alone and PER
(b3-1) alone using equation 3-1-2 in the present specification,
considering that the content of n-decane-insoluble components in rPP
(A3-1) was 98 wt % and fB was 0.505.

Comparative Example 3-2

[1123] Intensity of magnetization in decay process M(t)c5 was
measured by the same method as that in Example 3-1 except that 50 wt % of
rPP (A3-1) and 50 wt % of SEBS (C3) were used. The results are shown in
FIG. 3-4. FIG. 3-4 also shows the calculated intensity of magnetization
in decay process M(t)CAL5 obtained from the intensities of
magnetizations in decay processes measured for rPP (A3-1) alone and SEBS
(C3) alone using equation 3-1-2 in the present specification, considering
that the content of n-decane-insoluble components in rPP (A3-1) was 98 wt
% and fB was 0.505.

Comparative Example 3-3

[1124] Intensity of magnetization in decay process M(t)c6 was
measured by the same method as that in Example 3-1 except that 50 wt % of
rPP (A3-1) and 50 wt % of EBR (D3) were used. The results are shown in
FIG. 3-5. FIG. 3-5 also shows the calculated intensity of magnetization
in decay process M (t)CAL6 obtained from the intensities of
magnetizations in decay processes measured for rPP (A3-1) alone and EBR
(D3) alone using equation 3-1-2 in the present specification, considering
that the content of n-decane-insoluble components in rPP (A3-1) was 98 wt
% and fB was 0.505.

[1126] Each of rPP (A3-1) alone, which served as a reference, and the
polymer compositions with the component ratios described in Table 3-2 was
melt-kneaded and press-molded into a 2-mm thick sheet. With this sample,
the mechanical properties, scratch resistance, transparency, and thermal
whitening resistance were evaluated.

[1128] Each sample was abraded using a "Gakushin" abrasion testing machine
available from Toyo Seiki Seisaku-sho Ltd. equipped with a 45R SUS-made
abrasion indenter weighing 470 g whose tip was covered with cotton cloth
No. 10, under conditions of 23° C., the number of reciprocations
of 100 times, a reciprocation speed of 33 times/min, and a stroke of 100
mm. The gloss retention percentage with abrasion was calculated as
follows:

[1129] Measurement was performed with a digital haze/tubidimeter "NDH-20D"
available from Nippon Denshoku Kogyo Co., Ltd. for a 2-mm thick
press-molded sheet immersed in cyclohexanol. Internal haze was calculated
from the following equation:

Internal haze (%)=100×(Diffuse transmission)/(Total transmission).

(iv) Whitening Resistance (Thermal Whitening Resistance)

[1130] After each press-molded sheet was heated in a hot-air drier at
120° C. for 3 min and at 160° C. for 3 min, whitening
resistance was evaluated by visual observation.

[1132] The propylene-based polymer compositions using PEBR (B3) related to
the third aspect of invention, which satisfy formulae 3-2 and 3-3 in the
present specification, are superior to other soft polypropylene materials
(b3-1) and (b3-2) and conventional elastomers (C3) and (D3) in
flexibility, transparency, mechanical properties, scratch resistance, and
whitening resistance (thermal whitening resistance).

[1139] In Tables 3-4-1 and 3-4-2, the unit for each component is parts by
weight.

Evaluation Method for Cap Liner Performances:

[1140] Starting materials with the component ratios shown in Table 3-4-1
were kneaded by the same method as that in Example 3-1 to form pellets,
which were molded into 0.3-mm or 2-mm thick sheets with a press molding
machine (heating: 190° C. for 7 min, cooling: 15° C. for 4
min, cooling speed: about -40° C./min).

Stretching Property Evaluation:

[1141] A film strip was cut out of the 0.3-mm thick sheet. This film was
stretched by 150% (45 mm (chuck-to-chuck distance after stretching)/30 mm
(chuck-to-chuck distance before stretching)×100) at a tensile speed
of 20 mm/min with a tensile tester. Then the tensile stress was released,
and the residual strain was measured when the tensile stress became zero.

Residual strain=(100×(chuck-to-chuck distance at zero
stress)/30)-100

[1142] Compression Property Evaluation:

[1143] In accordance with JIS K-6301, six 2-mm thick pressed sheets were
stacked and compressed by 25% and kept at predetermined temperatures
(23° C. and 70° C.) for 24 hr, and after the load was
released, the thickness of the stack was measured. From the results,
deformation after 24-hr compression (permanent compression set) was
calculated using the following equation:

Permanent compression set=100×(thickness before test-thickness
after test)/(thickness before test-thickness on compression).

Evaluation Method for Wrap Film Performances:

[1144] With a three-kind three-layer cast molding machine, was prepared a
multi-layer film composed of a 20-μm thick film made of the
composition in Table 3-4-2 as an inner layer and a 5-μm thick layer
made of LLDPE (density=915 kg/m3, MFR (230° C.)=7.2 g/10 min)
on each of both the faces of the film.

[1145] The resulting film was stretched by 150% in a similar manner to the
residual strain evaluation, the whitening status of the film was
evaluated by visual observation.

[1147] From the above 150%-stretched (1.5-times stretched) film, a
dumbbell in accordance with JIS K6781 was obtained and subjected to
tensile test at a tensile speed of 200 m/min to evaluate the presence or
absence of yield point.

[1152] Specifically, PEER was prepared as follows. Namely, in a 2000-mL
polymerization reactor fully purged with nitrogen, 917 mL of dry hexane,
90 g of 1-butene, and 1.0 mmol of triisobutylaluminum were charged at
normal temperature, the inside temperature of the reactor was elevated to
65° C., and propylene was introduced so that the inside pressure
of reactor increased to 0.77 MPa, and then ethylene was supplied so as to
adjust the pressure to 0.79 MPa. To this reactor was added a toluene
solution in which 0.002 mmol of
dimethylmethylene(3-tert-butyl-5-methylcyclopentadienyl)fluorenylzirconiu-
m dichloride and 0.6 mmol (relative to aluminum) of methylaluminoxane
(available from Tosoh Finechem Corp.) had been contacted, and the
polymerization was conducted for 20 min while the inside temperature was
kept at 65° C. and ethylene was supplied to keep the inside
pressure at 0.79 MPa. The polymerization was terminated by adding 20 mL
of methanol, the pressure was released, and the polymer was precipitated
from the polymerization solution in 2 L of methanol and dried at
130° C. under vacuum for 12 hr to yield 60.4 g of the desired
polymer.

[1156] The properties of the above materials were measured by the
following methods:

(1) Co-Monomer (Ethylene and 1-Butene) Contents

[1157] the contents were determined by 13C-NMR spectrum analysis.

(2) MFR

[1158] MFR at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg was measured in
accordance with ASTM D1238.

(3) Melting Point

[1159] In exothermic/endothermic curve measured with a DSC, the
temperature at the maximum melting peak in heating was counted as Tm. A
sample loaded on an aluminum pan was heated to 200° C. at
100° C./min, kept at 200° C. for 5 min, cooled to
-150° C. at 10° C./min, and heated at 10° C./min
during which the exothermic/endothermic curve was recorded.

(4) Molecular Weight Distribution (Mw/Mn)

[1160] The Mw/Mn was measured by GPC (gel permeation chromatography) using
o-dichlorobenzene as a solvent at 140° C.

(5) Density

[1161] The density was measured by the method in accordance with ASTM
D1505.

(6) Mn of Hydrocarbon Resins

[1162] The Mn was measured by GPC (gel permeation chromatography).

(7) Softening Point of Hydrocarbon Resins

[1163] The softening point was measured by the ring-and-ball method in
accordance with ASTM D36.

[1164] Each starting material shown in Table 4-1 was kneaded with a
40-mmφ extruder and the resulting pellets were extruded at
230° C., with a cast film molding machine, into a 250-μm thick
single-layer film. In Table 4-1, the unit for each component is parts by
weight.

[1165] A 9-cm square sheet was cut out of the above film and drawn by 5
times (in molding direction of cast film, i.e., MD direction) and 1 time
(in TD direction) with a benchtop biaxial film stretching machine.

[1166] Draw temperature was 80° C., pre-heating time was 90 sec,
and draw speed was 10 m/min. The film was air-cooled immediately after
drawn.

[1167] The resulting films were evaluated on the following properties.

1. Heat Shrink Ratio

[1168] A specimen of 10 mm×100 mm (in draw direction) was cut out of
the oriented film and immersed in hot water at 80° C. or
90° C. for 10 sec. Heat shrink ratio was obtained from the
dimensional changes of the film before and after the immersion, using
equation (1).

[Mathematical 1]

100×{(dimension in draw direction during test)-(dimension in draw
direction after test)}/(dimension in draw direction after test) (1)

[1170] The film impact was measured for a film sized 100 mm×100 mm
at -10° C. using a film impact tester with a 0.5-inchφ
spherical impact head, available from Toyo Seiki Seisaku-sho Ltd.

4. Film Strength

[1171] Tensile strength at break (TS) was measured in the tensile test in
accordance with JIS K6781 (tensile direction was the same as the draw
direction of the film, and the tensile speed was 200 mm/min).

[1174] In exothermic/endothermic curve measured with a DSC, the
temperature at the maximum exothermic peak on cooling was counted as Tc,
the temperature at the maximum melting peak on heating was counted as Tm,
and the secondary transition point observed in the endothermic curve
between -100° C. and 0° C. was counted as Tg.

[1175] In the above measurement, a sample loaded on an aluminum pan was
heated to 200° C. at 100° C./min, kept at 200° C.
for 5 min, cooled to -150° C. at 20° C./min, and heated at
20° C./min during which the exothermic/endothermic curve was
recorded.

(2) Melt Flow Rate (MFR)

[1176] MFR at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg was measured in
accordance with ASTM D1238.

[1186] Specifically, PEER was prepared as follows. Namely, in a 2000-mL
polymerization reactor fully purged with nitrogen, 917 mL of dry hexane,
85 g of 1-butene, and 1.0 mmol of triisobutylaluminum were charged at
normal temperature, the inside temperature of reactor was elevated to
65° C., and propylene was introduced so that the inside pressure
of reactor increased to 0.77 MPa, and then ethylene was supplied so as to
adjust the pressure to 0.78 MPa. To this reactor was added a toluene
solution in which 0.002 mmol of
dimethylmethylene(3-tert-butyl-5-methylcyclopentadienyl)fluorenylzirconiu-
m dichloride and 0.6 mmol (relative to aluminum) of methylaluminoxane
(available from Tosoh Finechem Corp.) had been contacted, and the
polymerization was conducted for 20 min while the inside temperature was
kept at 65° C. and ethylene was supplied to keep the inside
pressure at 0.78 MPa. The polymerization was terminated by adding 20 mL
of methanol, the pressure was released, and the polymer was precipitated
from the polymerization solution in 2L of methanol and dried at
130° C. under vacuum for 12 hr to yield 60.4 g of PEBR.

[1189] The diffuse transmission and total transmission were measured with
a digital haze/tubidimeter "NDH-2000" available from Nippon Denshoku
Kogyo Co., Ltd. for each sheet in cyclohexanol to obtain internal haze
using the following equation:

Internal haze=100×(Diffuse transmission)/(Total transmission).

(2) Scratch Resistance

[1190] Each sample was abraded using a "Gakushin" abrasion testing machine
available from Toyo Seiki Seisaku-sho Ltd. equipped with a 45R SUS-made
abrasion indenter weighing 470 g whose tip was covered with a cotton
cloth No. 10, under conditions of 23° C., the number of
reciprocations of 100 times, a reciprocation speed of 33 times/min, and a
stroke of 100 mm. The gloss retention percentage with abrasion,
ΔGloss, was calculated as follows. The larger ΔGloss is, the
better the abrasion resistance is.

[1191] The heat resistance was evaluated as Vicat softening temperature
(JIS K7206). Each resin composition with the component ratio described in
Table 5-1 was re-molded into a 2-mm thick press-molded sheet (hot-pressed
at 190° C., cooled at about -40° C./min with a chiller),
which was used in the test.

(4) Mechanical Properties

[1192] In accordance with JIS K6301, yield stress (YS), elongation at
yield (EL at YS), tensile strength at break (TS), elongation at break
(EL), and Young's modulus (YM) were measured for JIS #3 dumbbell with a
span distance of 30 mm at a tensile speed of 30 mm/min at 23° C.

(5) Permanent Compression Set (CS at 23° C. and 70° C.)

[1193] In accordance with JIS K6301, six 2-mm thick press-molded sheets
were stacked and compressed by 25% and the permanent compression set
after 24-hr compression at 23° C. or 70° C. was evaluated
using the following equation. The smaller the value is, the more
excellent the compression set resistance is.

Permanent compression set=100×"strain after test"(thickness before
test-thickness after test)/"strain"(thickness before test-thickness on
compression)

Example 5-1

[1194] The starting materials with the component ratio described in Table
5-1 was melt-kneaded with a 40-mmφ single-screw extruder into
pellets, which were molded into a 2-mm thick sheet with a press molding
machine (heating: 90° C. for 7 min, cooling: 15° C. for 4
min, cooling speed: about -40° C./min). Items (1) to (5) above
were evaluated for the resultant sheet. The results are shown in Table
5-1.

Examples 5-2 to 5-4 and Comparative Examples 5-1 and 5-2

[1195] Evaluation was made similarly to Example 5-1, except that each
starting material with the component ratio described in Table 5-1 was
used instead of the composition in Example 5-1.

[1196] Dumbbells for tensile test in accordance with JIS K6301-2 were
obtained from the sheets prepared. Each dumbbell was drawn by 5 mm or 10
mm, and the change in hue (L-value in specular excluded method) was
evaluated using the following equation. The smaller ΔL is, the more
excellent whitening resistance on drawing is.

ΔL=L-value (after drawn)-L-value (before drawn)

(8) Whitening Resistance on Folding

[1197] Each sheet prepared was folded at about 90° to evaluate the
occurrence of whitening and occurrence of creases after folded.

[1198] Excellent: no whitening (whitening disappears when unfolded)

[1199] Poor: whitening (whitening remains even after unfolded)

(9) Wrinkle Resistance

[1200] Each sheet prepared was heat-sealed at 190° C. under 0.2 MPa
for 3 sec onto a substrate, which was a 200-μm thick polyethylene
sheet (LLDPE, density=900 kg/m3), to obtain a specimen, which was
folded at 90° to evaluate the appearance.

[1201] Excellent: no creases develop after folded,

[1202] Poor: creases (including sheet peeling off) develop.

Example 5-11

[1203] The starting materials with the component ratio described in Table
5-2 were molded into a 500-μm thick sheet at 230° C. with a
sheet-molding machine. Items (6) to (9) above were evaluated for this
sheet. The results are shown in Table 5-2.

Example 5-12, Comparative Examples 5-21 and 5-22

[1204] Evaluation was made similarly to Example 5-11 except that each
starting material with the component ratio described in Table 5-2 was
used instead of the composition in Example 5-11.

[1209] Propylene/ethylene/1-butene random copolymer (MFR=8.5 g/10 min,
Tm=not observed (ΔH: less than 0.5 J/g), Ethylene content=14 mol %,
1-Butene content=20 mol %, Mw/Mn=2.0, Shore A hardness=38, crystallinity
(by WAXD)=5% or less, mm-Fraction=92%, prepared by the method described
in WO 2004/87775) was used. Specifically, PEBR was prepared as follows.
In a 2000-mL polymerization reactor fully purged with nitrogen, 917 mL of
dry hexane, 90 g of 1-butene, and 1.0 mmol of triisobutylaluminum were
charged at normal temperature, the inside temperature of the reactor was
elevated to 65° C., propylene was introduced so that the inside
pressure of the reactor was increased to 0.77 MPa, and then the inside
pressure was regulated at 0.79 MPa with ethylene. Into the reactor was
added a toluene solution in which 0.002 mmol of
dimethylmethylene(3-tert-butyl-5-methylcyclopentadienyl)fluorenylzirconiu-
m dichloride and 0.6 mmol (relative to aluminum) of methylaluminoxane
(available from Tosoh Finechem Corp.) had been contacted, and
polymerization was conducted for 20 min while the inside temperature was
kept at 65° C. and the inside pressure was kept at 0.79 MPa by
adding ethylene. The polymerization was terminated by adding 20 mL of
methanol, the pressure was released, and the polymer was precipitated
from the polymerization solution in 2 L of methanol and dried at
130° C. under vacuum for 12 hr to yield 60.4 g of the desired
polymer.

[1215] Ten kilograms of ethylene/1-butene copolymer (F6-1) produced using
a metallocene catalyst, whose properties are shown in Table 6-1, and a
solution containing 50 g of maleic anhydride and 3 g of di-tert-butyl
peroxide in 50 g of acetone were blended in a Henschel mixer.

[1216] The resulting blend was supplied to the hopper of a single-screw
extruder (40-mmφ, L/D=26) and extruded at a resin temperature of
260° C. at an extrusion speed of 6 kg/hr into a strand, which was
water-cooled and pelletized to obtain maleic anhydride-grafted
ethylene/1-butene copolymer (F6-2).

[1217] After unreacted maleic anhydride was extracted with acetone from
the resulting maleic anhydride-grafted ethylene/1-butene copolymer
(F6-2), the amount of maleic anhydride grafted in this copolymer was
measured to be 0.43 wt %.

[1220] The content and mmmm-fraction were determined by 13C-NMR
spectrum analysis.

(2) Melt Flow Rate (MFR)

[1221] In exothermic/endothermic curve measured with a DSC, the peak top
temperature of melting peak with ΔH of 1 J/g or higher observed on
heating was counted as Tm.

[1222] A sample loaded on an aluminum pan was heated to 200° C. at
100° C./min, kept at 200° C. for 5 min, cooled to
-150° C. at 10° C./min, and heated to 200° C. at
10° C./min during which the exothermic/endothermic curve was
recorded.

(4) Molecular Weight Distribution (Mw/Mn)

[1223] The Mw/Mn was measured by GPC (gel permeation chromatography) using
o-dichlorobenzene as a solvent at 140° C.

(5) Density

[1224] The density was measured by the method in accordance with ASTM D
1505.

(6) Crystallinity

[1225] The crystallinity was estimated from a wide-angle X-ray diffraction
profile recorded with an X-ray diffractometer "RINT2500" available from
Rigaku Corp., using CuKα X-ray source.

(7) Shore a Hardness

[1226] The Shore A hardness was measured in accordance with JIS K6301
under the following conditions.

[1227] A sheet was prepared with a press molding machine. The scale was
read immediately after the pointer of a Type-A hardness tester touched
the sheet.

[1229] Each specimen was abraded using a "Gakushin" abrasion testing
machine available from Toyo Seiki Seisaku-sho Ltd. equipped with a 45R
SUS-made abrasion indenter weighing 470 g whose tip was covered with
cotton cloth No. 10, under conditions of 23° C., the number of
reciprocations of 100 times, a reciprocation speed of 33 times/min, and a
stroke of 100 mm. The gloss retention percentage with abrasion, .English
Pound.Gloss, was calculated as follows. The larger Gloss is, the better
the abrasion resistance is.

[1230] The starting materials with the component ratio in Table 6-3 were
kneaded with a Labo plast-mill (available from Toyo Seiki Seisaku-sho,
Ltd.) and molded into a 2-mm thick sheet with a press molding machine
(heating: 190° C. for 7 min, cooling: 15° C. for 4 min,
cooling speed: about -40° C./min). Items (1) and (2) above were
evaluated with this sheet. The results are shown in Table 6-3.

[1231] Evaluation was made similarly to Example 6-1 except that the
starting materials with the component ratio in Table 6-3 were used
instead of the composition in Example 6-1.

[1232] Note that the composition used in Reference Example 6-1 has the
same resin component as that in Example 6-1, and contains no
Mg(OH)2, and that the composition used in Reference Example 6-2 has
the same resin component as that in Comparative Example 6-1, and contains
no Mg(OH)2.

[1233] For compositions containing inorganic filler (magnesium hydroxide),
the propylene-based resin compositions of the present invention are
superior to the ethylene-based resin compositions used in Comparative
Examples in tensile strength at break, elongation at break, and scratch
resistance. In addition, the propylene-based resin compositions have
excellent balance of mechanical strength and flexibility, as shown by
less increase in Young's modulus.

[1234] The tensile strength at break and elongation at break were
evaluated with a 2-mm thick press-molded sheet in accordance with JIS
K-6301-3.

(4) Scratch resistance (Taber abrasion)

[1235] With a Taber type abrasion tester in accordance with JIS K7204, the
abrasion weight loss (mg) was obtained from the weight change of each
specimen before and after the abrasion test using a truck wheel (CS-17)
under the conditions of rotation speed of 60 rpm, 1000 test cycles, and
load of 1000 g.

(5) Low-Temperature Brittleness Temperature (Btp)

[1236] The low-temperature brittleness temperature was measured in
accordance with ASTM D746.

(6) D Hardness (HD-D)

[1237] The D hardness was measured in accordance with ASTM D 2240.

Example 6-3

[1238] The starting materials with the ratio in Table 6-4 were kneaded
with a Labo plast-mill (available from Toyo Seiki Seisaku-sho, Ltd.) and
molded into a 2-mm thick sheet with a press molding machine (heating:
190° C. for 7 min, cooling: 15° C. for 4 min, cooling
speed: about -40° C./min). Items (3) to (6) above were evaluated
with this sheet. The results are shown in Table 6-4.

Examples 6-4 and 6-5 and Comparative Example 6-3

[1239] Evaluation was made similarly to Example 6-3 except that the
starting materials were changed as described in Table 6-4.

[1240] The propylene-based resin compositions of the sixth aspect of
invention are superior to the conventional compositions used in the
comparative Examples containing polypropylene (bPP) and elastomer
particularly in elongation at break (EL) and scratch resistance (abrasion
weight loss). In particular, as shown in Example 6-5, it is confirmed
that use of propylene/ethylene/1-butene copolymer (PEBR) (B6-2) improves
flexibility and also provides better low-temperature brittleness
property.

Example 6-6

[1241] Evaluation was made similarly to Example 6-3 except that the
starting materials were changed to those described in Table 6-5.

[1242] As shown in Example 6-6, it is confirmed that additional use of oil
provides the propylene-based resin composition of the sixth aspect of
invention with particularly excellent low-temperature brittleness
property and scratch resistance.

Example 6-7

[1243] Evaluation was made similarly to Example 6-3 except that the
starting materials were changed to those described in Table 6-6.

[1244] As shown in Example 6-7, it is confirmed that additional use of
graft-modified polymer provides the propylene-based resin composition of
the present invention with particularly excellent scratch resistance.

Example 6-8

[1245] Evaluation was made similarly to Example 6-3 except that the
starting materials were changed to those described in Table 6-7.

[1246] As shown in Example 6-8, it is confirmed that the propylene-based
resin composition of the sixth aspect of invention exhibits more
excellent scratch resistance when produced using the melt-kneaded blend
(propylene-based polymer composition).

[1248] The density was measured in accordance with ASTM D1505 at
23° C.

(2) MFR

[1249] The MFR was measured in accordance with ASTM D1238 at predetermined
temperatures. MFR(230° C.) represents the value at 230° C.
under a load of 2.16 kg. MFR2 represents the value at 190° C.
under a load of 2.16 kg. MFR10 represents the value at 190°
C. under a load of 10 kg.

(3) B-Value, Tαβ Intensity Ratio

[1250] The B-value and Tαβ were determined by 13C-NMR.

(4) Molecular Weight Distribution (Mw/Mn)

[1251] The Mw/Mn was determined by gel permeation chromatography using
o-dichlorobenzene as a solvent at 140° C.

(5) Ethylene Content and Propylene Content

[1252] The ethylene content and propylene content were determined by
13C-NMR.

(6) Melting Point

[1253] The melting point was determined with a differential scanning
calorimeter (DSC). In exothermic/endothermic curve measured with a DSC,
the temperature at the maximum melting peak on heating was counted as Tm.
A sample loaded on an aluminum pan was heated to 200° C. at
100° C./min, kept at 200° C. for 5 min, cooled to
-150° C. at 10° C./min, and heated at 10° C./min
during which the exothermic/endothermic curve was recorded.

(ii) The properties of components (A7), (B7), (C7), and (D7) used in the
present invention are described below.

[1255] The propylene/ethylene/1-butene copolymer used for the present
invention was prepared, for example, by the method in accordance with
Examples 1e to 5e of WO 2004/87775. Specifically, the copolymer was
prepared as follows. Namely, in a 2000-mL polymerization reactor fully
purged with nitrogen, 917 mL of dry hexane, 90 g of 1-butene, and 1.0
mmol of triisobutylaluminum were charged at normal temperature, the
inside temperature of the reactor was elevated to 65° C., and
propylene was introduced so that the inside pressure of the reactor
increased to 0.77 MPa, and then ethylene was supplied to adjust the
inside pressure to 0.79 MPa. To this reactor was added a toluene solution
in which 0.002 mmol of
dimethylmethylene(3-tert-butyl-5-methylcyclopentadienyl)fluorenylzirconiu-
m dichloride and 0.6 mmol (relative to aluminum) of methylaluminoxane
(available from Tosoh Finechem Corp.) had been contacted, and the
polymerization was performed for 20 min while the inside temperature was
kept at 65° C. and the inside pressure was kept at 0.79 MPa by
supplying ethylene. The polymerization was terminated by adding 20 mL of
methanol, the pressure was released, and the polymer was precipitated
from the polymerization solution in 2 L of methanol and dried at
130° C. under vacuum for 12 hr to yield 60.4 g of the desired
copolymer.

[1258] The copolymer was synthesized as shown in Production Example 1
below.

Production Example 7-1

Preparation of Catalyst Solution

[1259] In 5 mL of toluene was dissolved 18.4 mg of triphenylcarbenium
(tetrakispentafluorophenyl)borate to prepare a 0.004-M toluene solution.
In 5 mL of toluene was dissolved 1.8 mg of
[dimethyl(t-butylamido)(tetramethyl-η5-cyclopentadienyl)silane]t-
itanium dichloride to prepare a 0.001-M toluene solution.

[1260] Prior to starting polymerization, 0.38 mL of the toluene solution
of triphenylcarbenium (tetrakispentafluorophenyl)borate and 0.38 mL of
the toluene solution of
[dimethyl(t-butylamido)(tetramethyl-η5-cyclopentadienyl)silane]t-
itanium dichloride were mixed with 4.24 mL of toluene to prepare 5 mL of a
toluene solution so that, in the polymerization solution, the
concentration of triphenylcarbenium (tetrakispentafluorophenyl) borate
became 0.002 mM (relative to boron) and that of
[dimethyl(t-butylamido)(tetramethyl-η5-cyclopentadienyl)silane]t-
itanium dichloride became 0.0005 mM (relative to titan).

[Preparation of Ethylene/1-Butene Copolymer (C7)]

[1261] In a 1.5-L SUS autoclave with stirring propellers fully purged with
nitrogen, 750 mL of heptane was charged at 23° C. Into the
autoclave, 10 g of 1-butene and 120 mL of hydrogen were charged with
ice-cooling while the stirring propellers rotated. The autoclave was
heated to 100° C., and ethylene was introduced so that the total
pressure became 0.6 MPa. When the inside pressure of the autoclave
reached 0.6 MPa, 1.0 mL of 1.0-mM/mL hexane solution of
triisobutylaluminum (TIBA) was injected with positive pressure of
nitrogen, and then 5 mL of the catalyst solution prepared above was
injected into the autoclave with positive pressure of nitrogen to start
polymerization. The polymerization was performed for 5 min while the
temperature inside the autoclave was regulated at 100° C. and the
inside pressure was kept at 0.6 MPa by directly supplying ethylene. At 5
min after start of polymerization, 5 mL of methanol was pumped into the
autoclave to terminate polymerization, the autoclave was released to
atmospheric pressure, and 3 L of methanol was added to the reaction
solution. The resulting polymer containing solvent was dried at
130° C. for 13 hr under 600 Torr to obtain 10 g of
ethylene/1-butene copolymer (C7). The properties of ethylene/1-butene
copolymer (C7) obtained are shown in Table 7-1.

[1266] The specific gravity was measured in accordance with JIS K7222.

(2) Permanent Compression Set

[1267] The permanent compression set test was performed in accordance with
JIS K6301 at 50° C. for 6 hr with 50%-compression to determine
permanent compression set (CS).

(3) Tear Strength

[1268] Tear strength test was performed in accordance with BS 5131-2.6 at
a tensile speed of 10 mm/min to obtain tear strength.

(4) Asker C Hardness

[1269] The Asker C hardness was measured in accordance with "Spring-type
hardness test, Type-C test method" described in Appendix 2 of JIS
K7312-1996.

(5) Impact Resilience

[1270] A steel ball of 15 g was fallen from a height of 50 cm (L0)
and the height rebound (L) was measured at 23° C. and 40°
C. to obtain impact resilience using equation, impact resilience
(%)=L/L0×100

(6) Abrasion Resistance

[1271] Akron abrasion test was conducted in accordance with JIS K6246
under a load of 6 lbs at an angle of 15° with a total rotation
number of 3000 at a rotation speed of 35 rpm, and the weight change of
specimen was measured to abrasion resistance.

(7) Adhesion Strength of Laminate

(7-1) Treatment for Secondary Crosslinked Foam

[1272] At first, surfaces of a secondary crosslinked foam were
water-washed using a surfactant and dried at room temperature for 1 hr.
This secondary crosslinked foam was immersed in methylcyclohexane for 3
min and then dried in an oven at 60° C. for 3 min.

[1273] An ultraviolet-curable primer ("GE258H1"® available from Great
Eastern Resins Industrial Co., Ltd.) was thinly applied with a brush on
the foam, and dried in an oven at 60° C. for 3 min. The foam was
irradiated with ultraviolet light on an irradiation system (EPSH-600-3S
UV irradiation system, available from GS Corp.) with three 80-W/cm
high-pressure mercury lamps installed perpendicular to the traveling
direction, while traveled in a plane 15 cm beneath the light source at a
conveyer speed of 10 m/min.

[1274] After that, an auxiliary primer ("GE6001L"® available from Great
Eastern Resins Industrial Co., Ltd., mixed with 5 wt % of curing agent
"GE366S") was thinly applied using a brush and dried in an oven at
60° C. for 3 min.

[1275] Then, an adhesive ("98H"® available from Great Eastern Resins
Industrial Co., Ltd., mixed with 4 wt % of curing agent "GE348") was
thinly applied with a brush and dried in an oven at 60° C. for 5
min.

[1276] Finally, the above adhesive-coated secondary crosslinked foam was
laminated with a synthetic leather sheet of polyurethane (PU) treated as
described below and they were press-bonded under 20 kg/cm2 for 10
sec.

(7-2) Treatment for PU Synthetic Leather Sheet

[1277] Surface of a PU synthetic leather sheet was washed with methyl
ethyl ketone and dried at room temperature for 1 hr. On the surface, an
auxiliary primer ("GE6001L"® available from Great Eastern Resins
Industrial Co., Ltd., mixed with 5 wt % of curing agent "GE366S") was
thinly applied with a brush and dried in an oven of 60° C. for 3
min. Then, an adhesive ("98H"® available from Great Eastern Resins
Industrial Co., Ltd., mixed with 4 wt % of curing agent "GE348") was
thinly applied with a brush and dried in an oven of 60° C. for 5
min.

(7-3) Peeling Test

[1278] The adhesion strength of the above press-bonded laminate was
evaluated at 24 hr after preparation as follows.

[1279] Namely, the laminate was cut into 1-cm wide specimens. At one end
of each specimen, the two layers were separated and pulled at a tensile
speed of 200 mm/min in directions making an angle of 180° to
measure the peeling strength. The peeling test was conducted for five
specimens, and the average value is shown as adhesion strength in Table
7-2. The peeling status of specimen was observed by eyes.

Example 7-1

[1280] A mixture containing 80 parts by weight of
propylene/ethylene/1-butene copolymer (B7-1), 20 parts by weight of
isotactic polypropylene (A7), and 100 parts by weight of
ethylene/1-butene copolymer (C7) relative to 100 parts by weight of the
total of (B7-1)+(A7); further, relative to 100 parts by weight of the
total of (B7-1), (A7), and (C7), 3.0 parts by weight of zinc oxide, 0.7
parts by weight of dicumyl peroxide (DCP), 0.2 parts by weight of
triallyl isocyanurate (TAIL) ("M-60" (product name, containing 60% TAIC),
available from Nippon Kasei Chemical Co., Ltd.) (0.12 parts by weight
relative to TAIL), 0.4 parts by weight of 1,2-polybutadiene, and 3.5
parts by weight of azodicarbonamide was kneaded with a kneader at a
preset temperature of 100° C. for 10 min. The mixture was further
kneaded with rolls at a roll surface temperature of 100° C. for 10
min and molded into a sheet.

[1281] The resulting sheet was placed in a press mold and pressed and
heated under 150 kg/cm2 at 155° C. for 30 min to obtain a
primary crosslinked foam. The press mold sized 15 mm thick, 150 mm long,
and 200 mm.

[1283] For this secondary crosslinked foam, evaluation was performed by
the above methods on specific gravity, permanent compression set, tear
strength, Asker C hardness, impact resilience, and abrasion resistance.
Further, the adhesion strength of a laminate composed of the foam and a
synthetic leather sheet of polyurethane (PU) was measured by the above
method, and the peeling status was observed by eyes. The results are
shown in Table 7-2.

Example 7-2

[1284] A secondary crosslinked foam was prepared and properties thereof
were evaluated similarly to Example 7-1, except that the amount of
ethylene/1-butene copolymer (C7) was changed from 100 parts by weight to
200 parts by weight and that the mixture used here contained, relative to
100 parts by weight of the total of (A7-1), (B7), and (C7), 3.0 parts by
weight of zinc oxide, 0.7 parts by weight of dicumyl peroxide (DCP), 0.2
parts by weight of triallyl isocyanurate (TAIL) ("M-60" (product name,
containing 60% TAIL), available from Nippon Kasei Chemical Co., Ltd.)
(0.12 parts by weight relative to TAIL), 0.4 parts by weight of
1,2-polybutadiene, and 3.7 parts by weight of azodicarbonamide. The
results are shown in Table 7-2.

Example 7-3

[1285] A secondary cross linked foam was prepared and properties thereof
were evaluated similarly to Example 7-1, except that 100 parts by weight
of ethylene/1-butene copolymer (C7) was changed to 100 parts by weight of
ethylene/1-butene copolymer (C7) and 100 parts by weight of
ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer (D7), and that the mixture used herein
contained, relative to 100 parts by weight of the total of (A7-1), (B7),
(C7), and (D7), 3.0 parts by weight of zinc oxide, 0.7 parts by weight of
dicumyl peroxide (DCP), 0.2 parts by weight of triallyl isocyanurate
(TAIC) ("M-60" (product name, containing 60% TAIC), available from Nippon
Kasei Chemical Co., Ltd.) (0.12 parts by weight relative to TAIC), 0.4
parts by weight of 1,2-polybutadiene, and 3.7 parts by weight of
azodicarbonamide. The results are shown in Table 7-2.

Example 7-4

[1286] A secondary cross linked foam was prepared and properties thereof
were evaluated similarly to Example 7-1, except that ethylene/1-butene
copolymer (B7-1) in Example 1 was replaced by propylene/1-butene
copolymer (B7-2), and that the mixture used herein contained, relative to
100 parts by weight of the total of (B7-2), (A7), and (C7), 3.0 parts by
weight of zinc oxide, 0.7 parts by weight of dicumyl peroxide (DCP), 0.2
parts by weight of triallyl isocyanurate (TRIC) ("M-60" (product name,
containing 60% TAIL), available from Nippon Kasei Chemical Co., Ltd.)
(0.12 parts by weight relative to TAIC), 0.4 parts by weight of
1,2-polybutadiene, and 3.7 parts by weight of azodicarbonamide. The
results are shown in Table 7-2.

Comparative Example 7-1

[1287] A secondary cross linked foam was prepared and properties thereof
were evaluated similarly to Example 7-1, except that the amount of
propylene/ethylene/1-butene copolymer (B7-1) was changed from 80 parts by
weight to 0 parts by weight and the amount of isotactic polypropylene
(A7) was changed from 20 parts by weight to 0 parts by weight, and that
the mixture used herein contained, relative to 100 parts by weight of
ethylene/1-butene copolymer (C7), 3.0 parts by weight of zinc oxide, 0.7
parts by weight of dicumyl peroxide (DCP), 0.2 parts by weight of
triallyl isocyanurate (TRIC) ("M-60" (product name, containing 60% TAIC),
available from Nippon Kasei Chemical Co., Ltd.) (0.12 parts by weight
relative to TRIC), 0.4 parts by weight of 1,2-polybutadiene, and 4.0
parts by weight of azodicarbonamide. The results are shown in Table 7-2.

Comparative Example 7-2

[1288] A secondary crosslinked foam was prepared and properties thereof
were evaluated similarly to Comparative Example 7-1, except that 100
parts by weight of ethylene/1-butene copolymer (C7) was changed to 100
parts by weight of ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer (D7). The results are
shown in Table 7-2.

[1292] (PEBR was prepared by the method described in WO 2004/87775.)
Specifically, PEBR was prepared as follows. In a 2000-mL polymerization
reactor fully purged with nitrogen, 917 mL of dry hexane, 90 g of
1-butene, and 1.0 mmol of triisobutylaluminum were charged at normal
temperature, the temperature in the reactor was elevated to 65°
C., propylene was introduced so that the pressure in the reactor was
increased to 0.77 MPa, and then ethylene was supplied so as to the
pressure became 0.79 MPa. Into the reactor was added a toluene solution
in which 0.002 mmol of
dimethylmethylene(3-tert-butyl-5-methylcyclopentadienyl)fluorenylzirconiu-
m dichloride and 0.6 mmol (relative to aluminum) of methylaluminoxane
(available from Tosoh Finechem Corp.) had been contacted, and
polymerization was conducted for 20 min while the inside temperature was
kept at 65° C. and the inside pressure was kept at 0.79 MPa by
adding ethylene. The polymerization was terminated by adding 20 mL of
methanol, the pressure was released, and the polymer was precipitated
from the polymerization solution in 2 L of methanol and dried at
130° C. under vacuum for 12 hr to yield 60.4 g of PEBR.

[1296] The contents and mmmm-fraction were determined by 13C-NMR
spectrum analysis.

(2) MFR

[1297] MFR at 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg was measured in
accordance with ASTM D1238.

(3) Melting Point

[1298] In exothermic/endothermic curve measured with a DSC, the
temperature at which the maximum melting peak appeared on heating was
counted as Tm. A sample loaded on an aluminum pan was heated to
200° C. at 100° C./min, kept at 200° C. for 5 min,
cooled to -150° C. at 10° C./min, and heated at 10°
C./min during which the exothermic/endothermic curve was recorded.

(4) Molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn)

[1299] The Mw/Mn was measured by GPC (gel permeation chromatography) using
o-dichlorobenzene as a solvent at 140° C.

(5) Density

[1300] The density was measured by the method described in ASTM D1505.

[Evaluation Items]

Tensile Strength at Break (Ts) and Flexibility:

[1301] In accordance with JIS K7113-2, tensile strength at break (TS) and
Young's modulus (YM) were measured for a 2-mm thick press-molded sheet.

Transparency (Haze) (Internal Haze)

[1302] Measurement was performed with a digital haze/tubidimeter of
"NDH-2000" available from Nippon Denshoku Kogyo Co., Ltd. using a 1.0-mm
thick press-molded sheet in cyclohexanol to calculate haze from the
following equation:

Haze (%)=100×(Diffuse transmission)/(Total transmission).

Heat Resistance (TMA)

[1303] In accordance with JIS K7196, a TMA curve was measured for a 2-mm
thick sheet using a 1.8-mmφ flat-ended needle under a load of 2
kgf/cm2 at a heating speed of 5° C./min. The temperature
(° C.) at which the needle penetrated into the specimen was
determined.

Adhesion strength to glass and PET

[1304] A 0.6-mm thick sheet was hot-press bonded (200° C., 5 min)
to a glass plate (4 mm thick) and a PET film ("Lumirror"® available
from Toray Industries, Inc., 100 μm thick), respectively. The peeling
strength of the laminate was evaluated at -10° C. and then at room
temperature.

[1305] Excellent: Firmly bonded, not easy to peel

[1306] Do: Bonded, but peelable

[1307] Poor: Not bonded

Shore A Hardness

[1308] The Shore A hardness was measured in accordance with JIS K6301.
(Measurement conditions) A sheet was prepared with a press molding
machine. The scale was read immediately after the pointer of a Type-A
hardness tester touched the sheet.

Example 8-1

[1309] A mixture of 20 parts by weight of isotactic polypropylene (A8)
(rPP), 80 parts by weight of propylene/ethylene/1-butene copolymer (B8)
(PEBR), and 1.5 parts by weight of silane coupling agent (Y8) was kneaded
with a Labo plast mill at 190° C. for 5 min. The resulting resin
composition was molded, using a press molding machine, into a 0.6-mm or
2-mm thick sheet, which was used to evaluate the above items.

Comparative Example 8-1

[1310] Relative to 100 parts by weight of isotactic polypropylene (A8)
(rPP), 1.5 parts by weight of silane coupling agent (Y8) was blended. The
resultant resin composition was evaluated by methods similar to those in
Example 8-1.

Comparative Example 8-2

[1311] Relative to 100 parts by weight of ethylene/1-butene copolymer (D8)
(EBR), 1.5 parts by weight of silane coupling agent (Y8) was blended. The
resulting resin composition was evaluated by methods similar to those in
Example 8-1.

[1312] Measurement was performed with a digital haze/tubidimeter
"NDH-2000" available from Nippon Denshoku Kogyo Co., Ltd. for a 1.0-mm
thick press-molded sheet in cyclohexanol to calculate haze using the
following equation:

Haze (%)=100×(Diffuse transmission)/(Total transmission).

Light Transmittance (Trans)

[1313] The light transmittance was measured for a 1.0-mm thick sheet.
Trans is calculated using the following equation:

[1314] In accordance with JIS K7196, a TMA curve was measured for a 2-mm
thick sheet using a 1.8-mmφ flat-ended needle under a load of 2
kgf/cm2 at a heating speed of 5° C./min. The temperature
(° C.) at which the needle penetrated into the sheet was
determined.

Mechanical properties (Tensile strength at break and Modulus in Tension)

[1315] Tensile strength at break (TS) and Young's modulus (YM) were
measured in accordance with JIS K7113-2 for a 2-mm thick press-molded
sheet.

[1317] The Shore A hardness was measured in accordance with JIS K6301.
(Measurement conditions) A sheet was prepared with a press molding
machine. The scale was read immediately after the pointer of a Type-A
hardness tester touched the sheet.

[1329] MFR at 190° C. or 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg was
measured in accordance with ASTM D1238.

(3) Melting Point

[1330] In exothermic/endothermic curve measured with a DSC, the
temperature at which the maximum melting peak appeared on heating was
counted as Tm. A sample loaded on an aluminum pan was heated to
200° C. at 100° C./min, kept at 200° C. for 5 min,
cooled to -150° C. at 10° C./min, and heated at 10°
C./min during which the exothermic/endothermic curve was recorded.

(4) Molecular Weight Distribution (Mw/Mn)

[1331] The Mw/Mn was measured by GPC (gel permeation chromatography) using
o-dichlorobenzene as a solvent at 140° C.

(5) Density

[1332] The density was measured by the method in accordance with ASTM
D1505.

Example 9-1

[1333] The starting materials shown in Table 9-1 were melt-kneaded with a
single-screw extruder (extrusion temperature: 220° C.). The
resultant melt-kneaded material was molded into a sheet (0.6 mm, 1 mm, or
2 mm thick) with a press molding machine (heating temperature:
190° C., heating time: 5 min, cooling speed: -40° C./min).
The above properties were evaluated for this sheet, which was a solar
cell-sealing sheet. The results are shown in Table 9-1.

Example 9-2

[1334] A specimen of solar cell-sealing sheet was prepared from the
starting materials (containing PH25B) shown in Table 9-1 by a similar
method to that in Example 9-1. The above properties were evaluated for
this specimen. The results are shown in Table 9-1.

Example 9-3

[1335] A specimen of solar cell-sealing sheet was prepared from the
starting materials (containing PH25B and TAIL) shown in Table 9-1 by a
similar method to that in Example 9-1. The above properties were
evaluated for this specimen. The results are shown in Table 9-1.

Comparative Example 9-1

[1336] A specimen of solar cell-sealing sheet was prepared and above
properties thereof were evaluated with the starting materials shown in
Table 9-1 by a similar method to that in Example 9-1. The results are
shown in Table 9-1.

Comparative Example 9-2

[1337] A specimen of solar cell-sealing sheet was prepared and above
properties thereof were evaluated with the starting materials shown in
Table 9-1 by a similar method to that in Example 9-1. The results are
shown in Table 9-1.

[1338] In Examples and Comparative Examples below, the properties of
electrical/electronic element-sealing sheets were evaluated by the
following measurement methods.

Flexibility

[1339] In accordance with JIS K6301, Shore A hardness was measured. A 2-mm
thick press-molded sheet was prepared from each composition by heating at
190° C. and then cooling at 40° C./min and used for
measurement. In Examples, the composition forming layer (II-10) in the
sheet was used, while in Comparative Examples, the composition forming
the single-layer sheet was used.

Transparency (Internal Haze):

[1340] Diffuse transmission and total transmission were measured with a
digital haze/tubidimeter "NDH-2000" available from Nippon Denshoku Kogyo
Co., Ltd. for each sheet in cyclohexanol. Internal haze was calculated
using the following equation:

Internal haze (%)=100×(Diffuse transmission)/(Total transmission).

Transparency (Light Transmittance)

[1341] Each composition was hot-pressed into a sheet (160° C., 2
atm, 10 min) while the sheet was protected with PET ("Lumirror"®,
available from Toray Industries) to prevent surface roughness, which
might affect the evaluation. After the sheet was air-cooled, the PET film
was removed to obtain a specimen (0.4 mm thick). With this specimen,
transmittance was measured with a digital haze/tubidimeter "NDH-2000"
available from Nippon Denshoku Kogyo Co., Ltd. Transmittance is
represented by the following equation:

[1342] In Examples, layer (II-10) in the sheet was used, while in
Comparative Examples the single-layer sheet was used. A TMA curve was
measured in accordance with JIS K7196 sing a 1.8-mmφ flat-ended
needle under a load of 2 kgf/cm2 at a heating speed of 5°
C./min. The temperature (° C.) at which the needle penetrated into
the layer or sheet was determined.

Adhesion strength to glass and Appearance:

[1343] Layer (I-10) in the sheet in Examples, or the single-layer sheet in
Comparative Examples, was hot-press bonded to a 4-mm thick glass plate
under two different conditions (condition 1: 150° C., 2 atm, 10
min; condition 2: 160° C., 2 atm, 10 min). Peeling strength at
room temperature of the laminate was evaluated as follows.

[1344] A: Firmly bonded, not easy to peel

[1345] B: Bonded, but peelable

[1346] C: Not bonded

Permanent compression set:

[1347] In accordance with JIS K6301, six 2-mm thick press-molded sheets
were stacked and compressed by 25%, and the stack was kept under this
load at a predetermined temperature (23° C. or 70° C.) for
24 hr, and then the stack was freed from the load and its thickness was
measured. From the results of measurement, the residual strain (permanent
compression set) was calculated using the following equation:

Residual strain (%)=100×("thickness before test"-"thickness after
test")/("thickness before test"-"thickness on compression").

[Starting Materials]

[1348] The species and properties of resins used to prepare specimens in
Examples and Comparative Examples are as follows.

[1351] Specifically, PEBR was prepared as follows. In a 2000-mL
polymerization reactor fully purged with nitrogen, 917 mL of dry hexane,
90 g of 1-butene, and 1.0 mmol of triisobutylaluminum were charged at
normal temperature, the temperature in the reactor was elevated to
65° C., propylene was introduced so that the pressure of the
reaction system was increased to 0.77 MPa, and then the pressure was
regulated at 0.79 MPa with ethylene. Into this reactor was added a
toluene solution in which 0.002 mmol of dimethylmethylene
(3-tert-butyl-5-methylcyclopentadienyl)fluorenylzirconium dichloride and
0.6 mmol (in terms of aluminum) of methylaluminoxane (available from
Tosoh Finechem Corp.) had been contacted, and polymerization was
conducted for 20 min while the inside temperature was kept at 65°
C. and the inside pressure was kept at 0.79 MPa by adding ethylene. The
polymerization was terminated by adding 20 mL of methanol, the pressure
was released, and the polymer was precipitated from the polymerization
solution in 2 L of methanol and dried at 130° C. under vacuum for
12 hr to yield 60.4 g of PEER.

[1358] The MFR was measured in accordance with ASTM D1238 at 190°
C. or 230° C. under a load of 2.16 kg.

(3) Melting Point

[1359] In exothermic/endothermic curve measured with a DSC, the
temperature at which the maximum melting peak appeared on heating was
counted as Tm. A sample loaded on an aluminum pan was heated to
200° C. at 100° C./min, kept at 200° C. for 5 min,
cooled to -150° C. at 0° C./min, and heated at 10°
C./min during which the exothermic/endothermic curve was recorded.

(4) Molecular Weight Distribution (Mw/Mn)

[1360] The Mw/Mn was measured by GPC (gel permeation chromatography) using
o-dichlorobenzene as a solvent at 140° C.

(5) Density

[1361] The density was measured by the method in accordance with ASTM
D1505.

(6) Shore A Hardness

[1362] The Shore A hardness was measured in accordance with JIS K6301
under the following conditions. (Measurement conditions) A sheet was
prepared with a press molding machine. The scale was read immediately
after the pointer of a Type-A hardness tester touch the sheet.

[1372] The thermoplastic resin composition of the present invention is
excellent in rubber elasticity, that is, permanent compression set as
well as mechanical properties. In particular, the composition exhibits
small temperature dependence in permanent compression set, keeping rubber
elasticity even at high temperature, so that the composition is suitably
used for automobile interior and exterior components, construction and
building components, home electric appliance components, cap liners,
gaskets, convenience goods (grips), and others.

[1373] The thermoplastic resin composition of the present invention and
crosslinked product thereof have flexibility well-balanced with scratch
resistance and whitening resistance and are kneadable at low temperature.
So that, these are suitably used for automobile interior and exterior
components, construction and building components, home electric appliance
components, cap liners, gaskets, convenience goods (grips), and others.

[1375] The film of the present invention has a high heat-shrink ratio and
also is excellent in flexibility, transparency, impact resistance, and
stretching property, so that the film is suitably used as heat-shrinkable
films and others. The thermoplastic resin composition of the present
invention is suitably used to produce films having a high heat-shrink
ratio and excellent flexibility, transparency, impact resistance, and
stretching property.

[1376] The polyolefin decorative sheet of the present invention is
excellent in flexibility, scratch resistance, abrasion resistance,
mechanical strength (tensile strength at break), heat resistance,
whitening resistance on stretching, whitening resistance on folding,
wrinkle resistance, water resistance, and compression set resistance.
Therefore, the film is not particularly limited on its applications, and
suitably used for home electric appliances and furniture such as TV
cabinets, stereo-speaker boxes, video cabinets, and various storage
furniture and unified furniture; housing members such as doors, door
frames, window sashes, crown, plinth, and opening frames; furniture
members such as doors of kitchen and storage furniture; construction and
building material such as floor material, ceiling material, and wall
paper; automobile interior material; home electric appliances;
stationery; office goods; and others.

[1377] The propylene-based resin composition of the present invention
contains inorganic filler at a high content, and is excellent in, as well
as flexibility, mechanical strength, elongation at break, and scratch
resistance. In addition, the propylene-based resin composition of the
present invention can be widely used for fire-retardant molded articles
including electrical wires and construction and building materials
because of high content of inorganic filler.

[1378] The foaming material (X7) of the present invention provides foams
having low specific gravity and permanent compression set (CS) as well as
excellent tearing strength, low resilience, and good scratch resistance.
Such foams can be used for footwear and footwear components. The footwear
components include, for example, shoe soles, shoe mid soles, inner soles,
soles, and sandals.

[1379] The resin composition of the present invention exhibits good
heat-bondability to inorganic materials, such as metals and glass, and
other plastics, and also high peeling strength in a wide range of
temperature. In addition, the resin composition of the present invention
is excellent in flexibility, heat resistance, transparency, and
mechanical strength, and hence suitably used as a raw material for
various applications.

[1380] The solar cell-sealing sheet of the present invention exhibits
excellent heat resistance even though not crosslinked. The solar
cell-sealing sheet of the present invention can eliminate the
crosslinking step from solar cell production processes, and also
facilitate recycle of solar cells.